North Slope ConocoPhillips Workers Vote to Unionize

Over 75% of workers voted in favor of unionization at Kuparuk, Alpine, and Willow fields

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Workers at ConocoPhillips' North Slope operations in Alaska have voted to unionize, with 165 out of 220 workers voting in favor of the labor union in the Kuparuk and Alpine areas. Union organizers also reported that around 75% of workers at the Willow field voted to unionize as well.

Why it matters

The vote to unionize represents a significant shift in the labor landscape for ConocoPhillips' North Slope operations, which have historically been non-union. This could lead to changes in worker benefits, wages, and working conditions as the new union negotiates a collective bargaining agreement with the company.

The details

The National Labor Relations Board oversaw the vote, which took place earlier this month. In December 2025, ConocoPhillips had confirmed it was laying off around 10% of its North Slope workforce, adding to worker concerns about job security and working conditions.

  • The vote count was finalized on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • In December 2025, ConocoPhillips confirmed it was laying off about 10% of its North Slope workforce.

The players

ConocoPhillips

A major oil and gas company with operations on Alaska's North Slope.

National Labor Relations Board

The federal agency that oversees and regulates labor relations and union elections in the United States.

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What’s next

The new union will now begin negotiating a collective bargaining agreement with ConocoPhillips to establish worker wages, benefits, and working conditions.

The takeaway

This union vote represents a significant shift in the labor dynamics on Alaska's North Slope, where oil and gas companies have historically operated without organized labor. It remains to be seen how this will impact ConocoPhillips' operations and the broader industry in the region.