ABOUT

We are the brothers and sisters of the IATSE local 820 representing workers at The Meadows Racetrack, KDKA-TV, and WQED-TV.

IATSE Local 820 serves the Greater Pittsburgh Area with members operating as Television Broadcasting Studio Employees. Local 820 was first chartered on June 21st, 1949, and has been operating as a strong presence in the Pittsburgh broadcast market ever since.

Since 1893, IATSE has been behind the scenes.  Starting with the early days of the musical, and the dawn of the film age, we have created indelible images; entertaining the world for generations. We are the brothers and sisters of the IATSE. 

Structure of the IATSE

Founded in 1893, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees represents workers in the entertainment industry. Our members work in all forms of live theater, motion picture and television production, trade shows and exhibitions, television broadcasting, and concerts as well as the equipment and construction shops that support all these areas of the entertainment industry. We represent virtually all behind the scenes workers necessary to the functioning of the entertainment industry, from all forms of live entertainment to motion picture and televisions to conventions and trade shows.

Local Unions

Within the U.S. and Canada, there are more than 375 IATSE local unions whose members make up the rank and file of the IATSE. The IATSE local unions are organized to represent workers by geographic and craft jurisdiction.

Each local functions independently, maintaining their own Constitution and By-Laws, elections, dues structure, membership meetings, and more. Locals negotiate labor contracts regarding wages, work rules, and grievance procedures. They also provide services to their members by administering health and retirement funds and providing training and education. The IATSE local unions work for the interest of their membership, while also representing the overarching goals of the IATSE International.

Districts

The IATSE Locals are subdivided into 13 geographical districts between the U.S. and Canada. Each district has a designated secretary whose responsibility is to maintain records of the Districts activities and finances, coordinate the District’s initiatives among the constituent locals, and facilitate communication between the locals.

District Conventions are required to be held at least once every two years. Many Districts meet annually. The District Conventions are for delegates of the affiliated locals to share common interests, problems, and receive education and training. Resolutions and amendments to the Constitution can originate in the District Conventions immediately preceding the International Convention. Districts are also integral to coordinating the political and legislative activities of their affiliated local unions.