3. Do you agree that employees who excel in nonunion environments earn more than they would in unionized companies? Why? The former human resources head for UPS describes what it s like (for both an employer and an employee) to work with a labor union. The roles and functions of labor unions are discussed, and the advantages and disadvantages that can accrue to both employees and management are explained. The future of unions, and other arrangements that fulfill some of the same roles, are also discussed.