ILA Local 333

By Kiana Shirley

Edited by Ashley Fogarty

The ILA (International Longshoremen’s Association) Local 333 represents Baltimore’s longshoremen—dockworkers responsible for the movement of cargo between ships and shore facilities. Headquartered at 6610-B Tributary Street, Baltimore, Maryland, the union has long played a central role in the operation of the Port of Baltimore. Its president, Scott Cowan, leads an organization dedicated to improving the working and living conditions of its members while maintaining the efficiency of port operations.

ILA Local 333 Mission Statement

ILA Local 333’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for its members and their families, organize non-union workers, and negotiate fair agreements that ensure equitable wages, job security, and safe working conditions. The union promotes civic involvement, educational opportunities, and health and welfare programs for workers. Its activities are grounded in patriotism, solidarity, and adherence to the ILA Constitution, and it strives to protect maritime labor through advocacy and education.

ILA 333 Local President Scott Cowan in Baltimore (Courtesy of ILA 333)

Operationally, the union represents dockworkers who load, unload, and store cargo at the port’s terminals. ILA Local 333 works with major employers, including APM Terminals, Domino Sugar Corporation, First Marine Contractors, MTC Ports America, Ports America Chesapeake, Red Hook Terminals Maryland, SSA Marine, and the Steamship Trade Association. These companies rely on the union’s skilled workforce to ensure that cargo is handled efficiently and safely. The union’s presence helps prevent disruptions stemming from unsafe conditions or labor disputes, both of which could have serious economic consequences for the region.

ILA Proud of Their History (ILA Education_History FaceBook)

ILA Local 333 is also financially and organizationally robust. According to the Office of Labor Management Standards, as of 2021, the union had 1,731 members, 15 employees, and assets totaling $3.77 million, with total income of nearly $1.9 million. These figures underscore the scale and stability of the organization within the port community. Such financial strength enables the union to sustain its operations, support its members, and actively participate in collective bargaining that shapes working conditions across the East Coast.

The Importance of the ILA Local 333

The importance of ILA Local 333 extends far beyond its membership. During recent labor negotiations between the ILA and the United Maritime Alliance (USMX), Baltimore’s port operations were affected by work stoppages that highlighted the union’s leverage and necessity. As President Cowan stated, “Protections against automation are vital—robots don’t pay taxes, and they don’t put food on the table.” His comment reflects a central tension in modern port labor: balancing the need for technological efficiency with the preservation of good-paying jobs. Without the ILA’s representation, automation could displace hundreds of workers, undermining both families and the regional economy.

ILA Material Handling Equipment Operator (ILA Education_History FaceBook)

In the event that ILA Local 333 were to dissolve, the impact on the Port of Baltimore would be severe. Strikes, safety issues, and loss of morale could reduce cargo throughput, delay shipping schedules, and harm local industries dependent on port logistics. The economic ripple effects would extend into trucking, rail, and warehousing sectors, as well as small businesses that rely on port activity.

ILA Local 333 stands as a vital pillar of the Port of Baltimore. It ensures cargo handling remains safe, fair, and efficient while protecting dockworkers' rights. The union’s strength lies not only in its bargaining power but also in its legacy of solidarity—a legacy that continues to shape Baltimore’s maritime economy and labor identity.

ILA 333 Masthead For Website showing logo (ILA 333)