Parking attendants who service the Parking Garage, North Lot, and King County Parking Garage at Lumen Field have chosen to join Teamsters Local 117. The Local Union was authorized as the workers’ exclusive bargaining representative through a card check process conducted by an independent arbitrator on Thursday, October 24, 2024.

“I am excited to welcome Lumen Field parking attendants to our Union,” said Paul Dascher, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters 117. “These workers provide critical services to fans and concert-goers at one of the Pacific Northwest’s premiere sports and entertainment venues. We are eager to sit down with their employer soon to negotiate a strong union contract that recognizes the value of their labor.”

The group of 44 workers are employed by the master tenant at Lumen Field, First and Goal, Inc. The workers sought a voice with Teamsters 117 two months ago, citing the need for secure scheduling with sufficient hours, family wages, and better overall working conditions.

“We wanted to form a union with Teamsters 117 to have strong representation,” said Aklilu Worke, who has been a parking attendant at Lumen Field for 2.5 years. “At Lumen Field, we should have the right to guaranteed wage increases and job security. As Teamsters, we will now have a voice to achieve those goals."

Secretary-Treasurer Dascher praised the company for taking a neutral position during the unionization process, especially in anticipation of the FIFA 2026 World Cup, which will host events at the venue.

“We commend this employer for making sure workers have a fair chance at union representation and for pledging not to interfere with the organizing process. With a marquee event like the World Cup coming soon to Lumen Field, the whole world will see that Seattle treats this group of workers with respect.”

In the coming weeks, representatives of Local 117 will meet with the workers to establish priorities for negotiations and elect rank-and-file leaders who will participate on the union negotiations committee.

“Forming a union at Lumen Field with Teamsters 117 is important because we have the opportunity to have a job with more hours and better benefits,” said Gashaw Abebe, a parking attendant with 2.5 years at Lumen. “As parking attendants, we help visitors at the stadium have an enjoyable experience. That service should be valued.”