Mates United is the campaign to win first union contracts for Licensed Deck Officers at Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) and Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). We bring these officers together with fellow MM&P members and the broader public, including other unions, community organizations, academics, faith leaders, elected officials, and supporters who believe maritime workers deserve fair treatment and a voice on the job.

In 2024, these officers voted overwhelmingly to join the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P). Now they are fighting to turn those votes into first contracts covering pay, benefits, safety, and working conditions.

The officers are Chief Mates, Second Mates, and Third Mates aboard 17 U.S.-flag oil tankers. Four are operated by ATC and thirteen by OSG. These companies are major petroleum carriers, transporting the fuel that powers our communities and economy.

These licensed maritime professionals oversee vessel navigation, cargo operations, and shipboard safety. Their work requires extensive training, professional credentials, and sound judgment under demanding conditions. They carry responsibility for protecting their crews, their vessels, the marine environment, and the safe delivery of essential cargo.

This is maritime’s Amazon and Starbucks fight: winning a union election is only the beginning when employers delay bargaining and workers must keep organizing to secure a first contract. The fight at ATC and OSG is about ensuring that workers’ democratic choice translates into a meaningful voice at work.

Mates United connects that shipboard struggle with solidarity on shore. By bringing workers and the wider community together, we are building public support around a clear demand: Saltchuk and its subsidiaries must respect the officers’ vote and negotiate first contracts.

For more information about the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots, visit bridgedeck.org.

They voted union. It’s time to bargain.