Spfpa™ - International Union, Security, Police and Fire Professionals of America

the passage of the taft-hartley act led to the first international, independent guard union, the united plant guard workers of america (upgwa) which was certified by the nlrb in 1948 and initially included some 1,250 members in twelve local unions across five states. over the next 52 years, the upgwa, under the leadership of presidents mcgahey, szczesny, applen, and mcconville, grew significantly. the beginning of the 21st century brought significant and enduring changes to the structure and mission of the international union. delegates to the 2000 international convention operated under the mantra of new directions for the union as developed and proclaimed by international president hickey. the name of the union was changed to the international union, security, police and fire professionals of america (spfpa®) in recognition of the scope and professionalism of spfpa® members occupations. divisions were established to better represent the needs of members whose occupations include