More than 1,000 skilled trade workers for the California State University system began a strike Tuesday to protest what they called “CSU’s refusal to honor contractually promised raises and step increases for its workers.”

The members of Teamsters Local 2010 include plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs, locksmiths and other building maintenance staff. Pickets were held at 22 CSU campuses statewide.

“Any disruptions to campus operations will be a direct result of CSU’s refusal to pay contractually promised raises,” Teamsters officials said.

ALSO SEE: Why Teamsters will strike CSU campuses in February

The union contends that the CSU system is falsely claiming that a shortage in state funding, but has “given out huge increases to overpaid executives,” is “sitting on billions in reserves” and received a low-interest state loan to fund worker raisers.

CSU officials released the following statement in response to the strike:

“The CSU values its employees and remains committed to fair, competitive pay and benefits for our skilled trades workforce through the collective bargaining process with the Teamsters. It is unfortunate that the Teamsters is advancing false claims to justify a strike, harming both their members and the broader university community.

“Agreements matter. The Teamsters agreed, in writing, to reopen bargaining if a certain level of new, ongoing funds were not received in 2025. That’s exactly where we are. The CSU has been bargaining in good faith, and we urge the Teamsters to honor their commitment and return to the table.”