The Building Trades in Rhode Island are well-organized; they aggressively pursue employment opportunities for their members and signatory contractors. The majority of RIAGC contractor members are signatory to two or more trade union contracts. Initial affiliation is usually with the carpenter and laborer unions. The RIAGC Labor Relations division is affiliated with Build Rhode Island, a 21st century labor-management partnership. The partnership is comprised of the RIAGC and local affiliates of the Rhode Island Building Trades Council, representing 18 construction trade unions. RIAGC’s Labor Relations division provides collective bargaining on behalf of its designated signatories with the unions representing bricklayers, carpenters, cement finishers, iron workers, laborers and operating engineers. Management and labor work to maintain harmonious relations for the benefit of both sides. Existing contracts are set to expire at the end of 2009.