America's Work Force Union Podcast

The worker's share of Gross National Income just hit its lowest level ever recorded. Corporate profits just hit their highest share in nearly 80 years. And CEOs took home $1.24 million in raises last year while average workers earned around $50,000. AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond has seen enough. On this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, Redmond breaks down the new GNI data, the AFL-CIO's annual Executive Paywatch findings, the defeat of a federal provision that would have blocked state AI worker protections for 10 years and what organized labor is bringing to its quadrennial convention in Minneapolis — record organizing rates, court victories and a message of solidarity heading into the midterm election cycle. Read the AFL-CIO Executive Paywatch report and get convention updates at aflcio.org.

Central Ohio is on pace to work 20 million building trades hours in 2026 — nearly double its 2023 record. So when Governor Mike DeWine suspended Ohio's data center sales tax exemption without warning or consultation, Columbus Building Trades Executive Secretary-Treasurer Dorsey Hager had plenty to say about it. On this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, Hager breaks down the economic case for the exemption, the real numbers behind what data center construction is generating in local tax revenue and jobs and why the governor's decision risks sending the wrong message to developers who have other options. He also delivers an encouraging Intel update, describes record apprenticeship applications across central Ohio's building trades Locals and recaps a fundraiser for Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin. Visit columbusconstruction.org for more on the Columbus Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council.

Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga just wrapped a seven-city labor roundtable tour across Ohio — and the message from workers was the same at every stop. Affordability is the number one issue, trust in government is near rock bottom and working people are ready for something dramatically different come November. On this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, Burga breaks down what he heard from union leaders in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron, Marietta, Columbus and Toledo, why Democratic primary turnout reached its highest midterm level since 2006 and what the Ohio AFL-CIO is doing to educate members and mobilize votes between now and Election Day. He also raises a sharp warning about Republican plans to place voter ID in the Ohio constitution — despite it already being state law — and previews what is on the agenda at the AFL-CIO national convention in Minneapolis. Visit ohioaflcio.org for more information on the Ohio AFL-CIO's election work.

Taylor Dobson was a fast food shift lead being pushed toward assistant manager when she decided enough was enough. Today she is a first-year carpenter apprentice with Carpenter's Local 174 in Chicago, working on solar farm projects and building a career she always wanted but never knew how to access. On this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, Taylor walks us through her path from Dunkin Donuts to the union hall, the Hire360 pre-apprenticeship program that opened the door, and what her first months have looked like on a large-scale solar installation with Power Circle Construction. She also speaks directly to women who are curious about the trades but unsure whether there is a place for them. If you have ever thought about making the jump into a skilled trades career, this one is for you. Visit hire360chicago.com to learn more about the program that made Taylor's transition possible.

When Live Nation and Ticketmaster make the news, the conversation usually starts and ends with ticket prices. But the real crisis goes much deeper. In this episode, we sit down with Karen Suarez-Flint, Secretary-Treasurer of the Chicago Federation of Musicians Local 10-208, to expose the systemic extraction of wealth from the working musicians who hold the entire industry up. What We Discuss in This Episode: The Live Nation Antitrust Verdict: What the April 2026 ruling actually means, why the federal settlement was "pathetic," and how 34 state attorneys general are fighting back. The 100-Mile Lockout: How Live Nation's aggressive "radius clauses" are quietly crushing independent venues in cities like Chicago. Streaming Economics 101: Why Spotify's $19B revenue translates to a $0.003 per-stream rate for artists—and how algorithms are gamed to suppress music unless artists accept even less. The American Music Fairness Act: Why the U.S. shares a bizarre radio royalty policy with Iran, China, and North Korea, and how this bipartisan bill could change everything. Take Action: Love live music? Don't let your local music ecosystem run out of time. Listen to the episode, share it, and contact your representatives to demand support for the American Music Fairness Act. Learn more about the Chicago Federation of Musicians: cfm10208.com Subscribe to America's Work Force Union Podcast for more insights on building worker power across America!

Every victory at the bargaining table starts with workers standing together—but solidarity means looking out for each other's minds as well as their livelihoods. In this episode of America’s Work Force Union Podcast, host Ed "Flash" Ferenc sits down with John Lepley, Director of Education and Membership Development at the United Steelworkers (USW). Marking both Mental Health Awareness Month and the USW's 84th anniversary, John highlights a vital shift in the labor movement: treating mental health as a core collective bargaining issue. What We Discuss in This Episode: The Power of Peer Support: Inside the USW’s voluntary mental health curriculum, developed alongside CUNY psychology professor Waleed Sami, which teaches members to spot warning signs and connect colleagues with professional care. Healthcare Workers in Crisis: How chronic understaffing, isolation, and workplace violence are compounding the mental health crisis for nurses and healthcare professionals—and how the union is fighting back. Bargaining for Well-being: Why scheduling, staffing ratios, and the boundary between work and home life are fundamental mental health policies that belong in every union contract. Leadership from the Top: The critical role General President Roxanne Brown played in championing this program from its early pilot stages to a nationwide union initiative. Important Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Learn more about the United Steelworkers and their initiatives at usw.org. Subscribe to the America's Work Force Union Podcast for daily insights from the leaders building worker power across America!

As America’s energy infrastructure undergoes a massive evolution, one critical trade is quietly keeping it all efficient: mechanical insulation. On today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, host Ed "Flash" Ferenc welcomes back Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust (LMCT), for his monthly update. Pete reveals the latest behind-the-scenes push on Capitol Hill and details why the future of American energy security relies on skilled union labor. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: Bipartisan Momentum on Capitol Hill: An inside look at Senate Bill 4312 (S.4312), the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act of 2026. Sponsored by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Steve Daines, this bill aims to mandate insulation upgrades across 350,000 federal buildings to save taxpayer dollars. The Power of Thermal Imaging: How the LMCT is utilizing live thermal camera demonstrations at trade shows to make energy waste instantly visible to architects, engineers, and facility managers. The Data Center Cooling Demand: Why modern data centers—which require constant cooling between 55 to 60 degrees—are creating a massive pipeline of work for mechanical insulators. The Nuclear Energy Revival: Pete makes a direct case for nuclear power as the cleanest, most efficient solution to America's energy deficit, highlighting Microsoft's reactivation of Three Mile Island and the rise of small modular reactors. Learn More: To find out more about the legislation and the economic impact of mechanical insulation, visit mechanicalinsulatorslmct.com.

Is American manufacturing fighting a losing battle against corporate greed and foreign markets? On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we welcome back our independent labor voice, Tom Buffenbarger (Retired International President of the IAM Union). With over 50 years of labor experience, Buffenbarger delivers a masterclass on the current geopolitical and legislative battles directly affecting American workers. What’s inside today’s episode: The China EV Domino Effect: How decades of short-term corporate decisions—starting with early aerospace offshoring—handed China 70% of the global EV market, creating a massive economic and national security vulnerability. The Apple Store Retaliation: The inside story of the IAM’s hard-fought victory at a Baltimore Apple store, the subsequent union-busting tactics, and the alarming trend of closing unionized storefronts. A Turning Point for Labor Law: Why the Faster Labor Contracts Act is gaining sudden momentum. With a House discharge petition clearing the crucial 218-signature threshold, find out how this bipartisan bill could force binding arbitration and end endless employer delay tactics. OSHA Under Fire: A stark warning about proposed 20% to 25% budget cuts to the Department of Labor for FY2027, and what it means for worker safety on the job. Connect With Us Every victory at the bargaining table starts with workers standing together. Don't miss an episode of the stories building worker power across America. Website: https://awf.labortools.com/ Subscribe: Follow us on your favorite podcast app to get new episodes daily.

While veteran students pursuing a four-year degree receive 100% of their monthly housing allowance for the duration of their program, veterans entering union apprenticeships face a steep penalty: their housing support is slashed by 20% every six months. In this episode of America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we sit down with Joseph Sharpe Jr. (Director of the National Veterans Employment and Education Commission at the American Legion) and Policy Associate Steve Betsch to break down the Reducing Arbitrary Barriers to Apprenticeship Act of 2026 (S.3993). This bipartisan Senate legislation, introduced by Senators Tim Sheehy and Elissa Slotkin, aims to eliminate this arbitrary step-down and bring true parity to veteran benefits. What We Discuss in This Episode: The GI Bill’s Modern Flaw: Why the historical assumption that rising apprentice wages offset housing cuts no longer matches today's cost-of-living realities. Personal Stakes: Steve Betsch shares his journey from a Navy submarine to graduating debt-free, illustrating how critical these benefits are to financial survival during transitions. National Security & The Workforce: How bridging this benefit gap can help recruit veterans to fill the nation's 600,000 vacant skilled trades jobs and rebuild critical infrastructure like American shipbuilding. A Call to Action for Labor Leaders: How union locals can throw their weight behind S.3993 to get this legislation across the finish line. Take Action: Union leaders and members are encouraged to contact the offices of Senator Tim Sheehy or Senator Elissa Slotkin to submit a formal letter of support for S.3993. Learn more about the American Legion's advocacy work at legion.org.

What does it actually mean to support our military veterans when they transition to civilian life? It goes far beyond a simple "thank you for your service." It means providing a direct path to a good life, a strong career, and an industry culture that protects their mental well-being. On this special Memorial Day episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, host Ed "Flash" Ferenc sits down with Mike Hazard, a Navy veteran and the Executive Director of the United Association’s Veterans in Piping (VIP) program.   Hazard shares the incredible 18-year track record of the UA VIP program—a DoD SkillBridge initiative that has placed more than 3,700 graduates into guaranteed, high-paying career tracks within the pipe trades. But the conversation doesn't stop at career placement. Hazard dives deep into an urgent, deeply personal mission: tackling the mental health crisis in the construction industry.   Key Discussion Points: The 10% Bottleneck: Why timeline constraints mean only a fraction of the 200,000 annually transitioning service members can access elite programs like VIP, and how partnerships with Helmets to Hardhats provide a vital safety net. The Staggering Statistics: Why construction workers are six times more likely to die by suicide than by a job site accident—and how the UA is fighting back by embedding dedicated suicide prevention workshops directly into standard OSHA 30 training. The Power of Peer Support: The specific, lifesaving training that teaches workers to bypass vague language and ask the direct question: "Are you thinking about suicide?" A Sovereign Memorial Day Message: A veteran’s reflection on how to honor families who have lost loved ones in uniform—and why listening to their stories with both ears is our ultimate obligation.   Critical Resources & Links: Learn more about the UA VIP Program: uavip.org Explore Veteran Trade Paths: unionvets.org Get Support Now: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7.   Want more stories from the frontline of the labor movement? Subscribe to the America's Work Force Union Podcast to get the latest interviews with the leaders and organizers building worker power across America.

The labor movement is done waiting for a seat at the table—workers are fighting for survival at the federal level and running for legislative seats locally. In this episode of America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we examine the dual realities of modern union power: the defensive structural protections of our public infrastructure and the offensive strategy of electoral politics. Part 1: The Federal Worker Purge & The Privatization Playbook Jacqueline Simon, Policy Director of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), joins the show to deliver a sobering report on the state of the federal workforce. Since January 2025, a sweeping execution of executive orders has fundamentally altered public services. The 300,000 Job Elimination: Why abolishing permanent positions permanently reduces federal capacity and sets agencies up to fail. The National Security Loophole: How a million workers had their collective bargaining rights stripped in what the administration's own paperwork admits was a retaliatory strike against the union. Designed to Fail: The systematic gutting of Social Security field offices, 30,000 lost positions at VA healthcare, and the looming threat of TSA privatization. Part 2: From Endorsements to the Ballot Box Shifting to the offensive, Davida Russell, Secretary-Treasurer of the North Coast Area Labor Federation and Ohio CLUW State President, discusses her historic Democratic primary victory for the Ohio House, capturing nearly 75 percent of the vote. The Pivot to Power: Why working people are tired of empty campaign promises and are increasingly running their own members for office. Unstoppable Women Conference: A preview of the biennial gathering on June 5-6 in Independence, Ohio, featuring panels with Stacey Abrams, Amy Acton, Nina Turner, and trailblazing labor leaders. Real-World Realities: Addressing the financial and emotional exhaustion of the working class and channeling 60-year-high union favorability into direct legislative action. Resources & Links: Learn more about AFGE’s legal challenges: afge.org AFL-CIO Website: aflcio.org  Subscribe to the America's Work Force Union Podcast for daily insight into worker power: awf.labortools.com

Artificial intelligence is moving fast, but union journalists are fighting back even faster. In today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, host Ed "Flash" Ferenc sits down with Jon Schleuss, President of the NewsGuild-CWA, fresh off his historic election to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) executive committee in Paris. Representing journalists across 100 countries, Schleuss gives us a sobering look at global threats to press freedom—from media consolidation to algorithmic exploitation—and explains how he’s exporting the American organizing playbook to a global stage. We dive deep into the front lines of the labor movement, including: The War on "AI Slop": Why outlets like Ziff Davis and Cal Matters have signed contracts protecting human journalists, while The New York Times and ProPublica continue to resist critical guardrails. CWA Has LA's Back: How the union is providing a financial runway ($500/week strike benefits and healthcare) to laid-off Los Angeles journalists fighting alleged anti-union discrimination as they launch an independent newsroom at ourpapernow.org. The Publishing House Surge: Inside the massive organizing wins drawing in over 730 workers at Hachette Books and the University of Chicago Press. Discover more about worker power: Visit newsguild.org to learn more about the campaigns mentioned in this episode. Subscribe to the America's Work Force Union Podcast for daily insights, interviews, and updates from the front lines of the American labor movement.

On today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, we are covering a massive amount of ground—from the halls of the Ohio Statehouse to the structural healthcare barriers facing union moms across the country. Segment 1: Ohio Labor Under Fire with Melissa Cropper Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) and Secretary-Treasurer of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joins the show to unpack three simultaneous attacks on Ohio workers and the democratic process: The Midnight Pension Raid: How a 1 a.m. budget amendment stripped elected educators of control over the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) board, and the legal battle (plus House Bill 719) fighting to reverse it. HB 698 & Higher Ed Restrictions: How this compliance mechanism is weaponizing state funding to restrict collective bargaining and aggressively police DEI roles. Union Busting in the Stacks: A look at the Columbus Metropolitan Library administration's aggressive anti-union campaign ahead of a critical mid-June election—and details on the June 7 community rally at Franklin Park. Segment 2: Breaking the Silence on Perinatal Mental Health For Mental Health Awareness Month, we sit down with Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield's National Labor Office, and Arin McClune, Clinical Quality Senior Program Manager with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association National, to tackle the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in America: maternal mental health disorders. The Stark Reality: Up to 20% of women experience these disorders, yet fewer than 20% are ever screened. The Racial Equity Gap: Why women of color are twice as likely to suffer from maternal mental health challenges but only half as likely to receive care. The Union Solution: With 68% of mothers with young children in the workforce, find out how labor leaders can advocate for remote work, flexible scheduling, and integrated mental health benefits to build a culture of solidarity and support. Go Behind the Scenes of the Labor Movement: Every victory starts with workers standing together. Subscribe to the America's Work Force Union Podcast to get the latest interviews with the leaders, organizers, and advocates building true worker power. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

What happens when local politicians prioritize budget spreadsheets over public safety? In this episode, we visited with IAFF Local 1120 President Jeremy Gillam from the Bucyrus City Fire Department in Ohio. Gillam shares the harsh reality of leading an 18-member department stretched to its absolute limit, forcing first responders to fight not just fires but also city council budget cuts. Key Takeaways From the Interview: The Staffing Crisis: Due to severe staffing shortages, Gillam was nearly unable to make the interview because he was called to active duty. Since taking over full EMS responsibilities for the city and four surrounding townships in 2021, the number of on-duty first responders in the area has dropped from 11 to just 5 or 6 per shift. Math vs. Myth on Overtime: While the city council complains about a swelling $600,000 overtime budget, Gillam explains that hiring six additional firefighters would erase the overtime burden, improve safety, and cost the city virtually nothing extra. The union even offered a 0% wage increase to restore their sixth overnight firefighter. Vote of No Confidence: Local 1120 members recently stood shoulder-to-shoulder at a city council meeting to deliver a unanimous vote of no confidence against their Fire Chief. Gillam reveals how the chief actively negotiated against his own members at the bargaining table and failed to maintain up-to-date standard operating procedures (SOPs). Disaster Preparedness Realities: Reflecting on the East Palestine train derailment, Gillam warns that smaller towns like Bucyrus—which see constant hazardous train traffic—are fundamentally unequipped to handle a national-scale chemical disaster with current staffing levels. Get Involved: Connect with the department and support local first responders by visiting IAFF Local 1120 on Facebook or Instagram. Taxpayers are always welcome to open the door, take a tour, and see what it takes to protect the community day in and day out.

On this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, host Ed "Flash" Ferenc welcomes Dr. Michael MacDonald, director of audiology, and Rick Renna, chief growth officer of Birdsong Hearing Benefits. More than 22 million American workers face hazardous noise levels on the job, yet fewer than 16% of adults with hearing loss use hearing aids. MacDonald and Renna break down the severe economic, physical and psychological toll this takes on union tradespeople, noting that untreated hearing loss often results in an annual wage gap of roughly $12,000. Key topics discussed include: The Career Toll: Why workers quietly pass on union leadership roles and trustee posts to avoid exposing their hearing limitations. The Safety Risk: How operating in high-noise environments causes physical fatigue and drives workers' compensation claims up to 33% higher annually. The Mental Health Connection: Recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month by exploring the link between untreated hearing loss, social isolation and cognitive decline. Eroding the Stigma: How modern, Bluetooth-enabled discrete tech is changing the perception of hearing aids for younger workers. To learn more about implementing dedicated hearing benefits for your union members or health plan, visit birdsonghearing.com.

The federal government is facing a crisis of accountability and a race against the clock. In today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we tackle two massive stories affecting millions of American veterans and retirees. From untracked billions in government spending to the legislative battle to save Social Security, we look at the issues defining the 2026 midterm elections. Segment 1: The VA’s $21 Billion Blind Spot Jeff Stoffer, Director of the American Legion Media and Communications Division, discusses June’s American Legion Magazine, including a story about a staggering GAO report: The Software Mess: How the VA spent $21B on software it can’t track, and the legislation (H.R.6654) designed to force accountability. Data at Risk: Why a 1974 privacy law isn't enough to protect veteran health data in 2026. A Presidential Tribute: A preview of the July 4 grand opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, ND. Segment 2: The Senior Voter Shift & Social Security’s Deadline Rich Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, brings fresh data from a survey of 1,000 likely voters age 60-plus: Midterm Momentum: Why seniors in 39 key swing districts are shifting toward Democrats by 3-4 points. The 2032 Cliff: A deep dive into the looming 25 percent benefit cut and the fight to scrap the $184,500 earnings cap. The Voting Record: How to use the Alliance's database to see where your representative actually stands on labor and retirement. Take Action: Knowledge is power at the ballot box. Visit legion.org and retiredamericans.org to track the legislation discussed today. Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss an update on the labor movement. Subscribe to AWF on Podbean, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite player.

Labor momentum in D.C.’s entertainment industry isn't just growing—it’s compounding. IATSE Local 22 Vice President Nick Arancibia and Business Agent Ryan Chavka join the show to discuss their third major regional theater victory in six years: Arena Stage. We dive into how a "bombshell" management demand for 60-hour workweeks at Signature Theatre sparked a movement that changed NLRB case law, and why the union is now expanding into iconic rock-and-roll venues like the 9:30 Club. In this episode, we discuss: The Signature Spark: How one disastrous management decision led to a 100% card-signing drive in six weeks. A Shifting Market: Why younger workers are prioritizing "predictable lives" over just higher wages. The Turning Tide: What it means when non-union venue managers start calling the union because they can't keep staff.

From the legislative battles of the Midwest to historic street mobilizations in Southern California, the labor movement is currently the front line of defense for the American working class. Today, we look at how union leaders are responding to fiscal threats and federal pressure. Segment 1: The $21 Billion Threat in Ohio We’re joined by Frank Mathews, Administrative Director of CWA District 4, to discuss the fallout of the Ohio and Indiana primaries. While labor-backed candidates like Ironworker Brian Poindexter are securing major wins, a new threat is looming: a movement to repeal Ohio’s property tax. Mathews breaks down why this proposal is a "trap" that would blow a $21 billion hole in public services, devastating schools, roads, and fire departments. Segment 2: Solidarity Under Fire in Los Angeles Yvonne Wheeler, President of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, joins us to discuss a city pushed to the brink. Following the January 2025 wildfires and large-scale immigration enforcement operations, Wheeler explains how the LA Fed organized the largest nonviolent direct action training in U.S. history. We discuss the creation of the Peacekeepers, the May Day 2026 mobilization, and why the labor movement is the only force capable of holding the line during a crisis.

In one of the fastest-growing communities in the country, public safety is struggling to keep pace with the pavement. Billy Colburn, past president and election manager for IAFF Local 3082, joins the America's Work Force Union Podcast to sound the alarm on a critical staffing crisis in Round Rock, Texas. Despite a study revealing the department has 0% capability of meeting national safety standards for fires at nursing homes and apartment complexes, the union's push for Proposition B faced a wall of political opposition. Colburn breaks down the "not for self, but for others" mission and the frustrating reality of a city that prioritizes multi-million dollar walking trails over basic fire apparatus staffing. Key highlights from this episode: The 10% Standard: Why Round Rock currently fails to meet the "two-in, two-out" safety rule for residential fires. The $5.6 Million Disconnect: A look at city spending priorities and why walking trails are being built while fire response times lag. An Unexpected Rivalry: The story behind the local police union’s reversal on Proposition B—despite the plan quietly funding 30 new police positions. The Post-Election Path: What comes next for IAFF Local 3082 after the unofficial May 2nd results.

The broadcast industry is facing a "gut punch," but the labor movement is punching back. In today’s episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, host Ed "Flash" Ferenc navigates the two-sided reality of the 2026 labor landscape: an industry in crisis and a workforce in ascent. Segment 1: The Fight for the Voice of Journalism Mary Cavallaro, Chief Broadcast Officer for SAG-AFTRA, delivers an unflinching look at the wave of layoffs sweeping through Nexstar and the shocking closure of the 100-year-old CBS News Radio. The AI Threat: How "voice cloning" and generative AI are targeting the identities of correspondents and DJs. The Severance Standard: Why union contracts are the only thing standing between a worker and a financial crisis during consolidation. A Message to Non-Union Workers: Why SAG-AFTRA is opening its doors to those without a contract. Segment 2: By the Numbers—The Union Renaissance Margaret Poydock, Senior Policy Analyst at the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), joins us to reveal the blockbuster 2025 union membership data. Despite a hostile federal environment, the numbers are the highest they’ve been since 2009. The Southern Surprise: Why nearly half of all new union growth is happening in the South. Gen Z & Millennials: Breaking down the 72% favorability rate among young workers who are "done" with the status quo. The Representation Gap: 50 million workers want a union but can’t get one—how states are bypassing federal gridlock to fix it. Links & Resources: Learn more about SAG-AFTRA: sagaftra.org Read the full EPI report: epi.org Subscribe for more: awf.labortools.com