Laborers' Local 1686

09/01/2026

Whether it's firewatch or other industry certifications, the Montana Laborers Training Center is committed to preparing LIUNA members with the knowledge and skills they need to build successful careers.

Feature Friday!!

This week we spotlight the Montana Laborers Training Center, where members gain the skills and certifications needed to succeed safely and confidently on the job.

The Training Center offers instruction in a wide range of trades and safety programs, with Firewatch and Telehandler training being a couple of the many hands-on courses available. During this training, members learn to identify fire hazards, monitor work areas, respond appropriately in emergencies, and even cook their food over a fire. Using controlled fire exercises, members gain valuable real-world experience in a safe and supervised environment.

Whether it's firewatch or other industry certifications, the Montana Laborers Training Center is committed to preparing LIUNA members with the knowledge and skills they need to build successful careers,

Training Today. Building Tomorrow!

09/01/2026

1686ers, our regularly scheduled General Membership meeting has been moved to Monday, September 14 at 6:30 PM to allow members to celebrate the Labor Day holiday. If you have any questions, please contact the Helena office at 406-442-2442.

08/28/2026

Thank you to the members that participated in the Trail Cleanup volunteer day in Billings. There's nothing better than building community with our Union Brothers and Sisters to maintain and strengthen our collective power. foster community solidarity and serve as leaders across Montana.

08/20/2026

Check out the new Fall Training Schedule and get signed up before classes fill.

Check out the new schedule and call and sign up for classes!

08/20/2026

1686ers, we will be partnering with the Montana AFL-CIO and local CLCs to celebrate Labor Day again this year. Please join us at one of the celebrations across the state as we honor Montana's workers and their contributions to society.

08/17/2026

Butte members, join us Thursday, August 20th at 6:00 pm at the Carpenter's Union Hall for a town hall with LIUNA Enorsed Sam Forstag and special guest Jon "Bowzer" Bauman! This is your chance to hear directly from Sam, ask your questions, learn how you can get involved, and participate in a real conversation about what matters to you and your community.

Sam is a smokejumper and union leader running for Congress to make sure working people have a voice in Washington. He'll talk about the fight for housing, healthcare, and childcare that Montana families deserve, and what he's seen firsthand fighting for public lands and the public servants who protect them.

https://www.mobilize.us/samformontana/event/1007704/

Join us Thursday, August 20th at 6:00 pm in Butte for a town hall with Sam Forstag and special guest Jon "Bowzer" Bauman! This is your chance to hear directly from Sam, ask your questions, learn how you can get involved, and participate in a real conversation about what matters to you and your commu...

08/13/2026

Thank you to the members that volunteered for The United Way of Yellowstone County's annual Operation School Supply drive and backpack distribution in Billings to help local students get ready for class.

08/12/2026

Thank you to the members who showed up to volunteer for United Way of Cascade County's Unstuff the Bus event. Members helped provide local nonprofits and school pantries with school supplies for the families and students they serve throughout the school year.

08/05/2026

Our Brothers and Sisters in Washington and Oregon have experienced devastating wild fires. Please provide any assistance that you can. We will also accept monetary donations and gift cards at the Helena office that will be sent to Local 238.
You can use the following links to donate to members impacted in the following communities.
For Spokane - https://amzn.to/3UcbdlK
For Central WA - https://amzn.to/3Ud4qIt
For Oregon - https://amzn.to/4hOG0in

07/31/2026

Local 1686 Field Rep Kim Deal attended the Grace Carroll Rocky Mountain Labor School to build new skills that will further enable her to represent members to the best of her ability. Thanks to the members who supported her attendance, as we continue pushing our union toward its full potential.