Message from the President, Frank Kohlberger

Welcome to the internet home of the Professional Employees Association. The Professional Employees Association, or PEA as most of us know it, is a collection of employees across British Columbia who share a common vision — that professionals enjoy the absolute best in working conditions while doing the jobs they love. The PEA is a union of, and for professional employees. Each bargaining unit that the PEA has organized, consists predominantly of professionals — people whose work responsibilities typically require that they have earned at least one university degree.

We have come a long way since 1974 when the PEA was founded. Over the past thirty five years, we've had the pleasure of working with fifteen presidents, four executive directors, and nearly 9,000 members. Currently our professional membership tallies almost 3,000 strong, within a structure of ten chapters.

Our twelve Association Executive members are all deeply committed to equitable treatment for all members, no matter what chapter they are in. The PEA's functional size ensures that every member receives the individual treatment and attention they need when dealing with labour relations matters.

The members who make up our association are diverse. Our chapters include members working in law, government, education, health services, and other sectors that contribute to the well-being of British Columbians, and to the economic development of our Province.

The PEA is supported by employees committed to the labour movement, operating out of our Victoria and Lower Mainland offices. Our staff members provide the labour relations, administrative, communications, and financial services necessary for a vibrant union. As a modest sized union with volunteer Executive members, it is imperative that we have competent staff that provide sound direction and advice. In my years with the PEA, we have always been very fortunate, attracting staff who truly manage the PEA in the best possible way for the benefit of our membership.

Whether you're a seasoned PEA member taking a browse, a new member looking to find out how the association will make a difference in your life, or a professional wishing to have a union at your workplace, you'll find everything you need to know about the PEA while exploring our site.

In closing I will say that I truly hope you enjoy the PEA website, and if you would like to get involved, I encourage you to contact us.

Frank Kohlberger, President
Professional Employees Association

PEA Mission Statement


The PEA is a union of professionals dedicated to fair and equitable collective agreements and working conditions for its members.

We do this through collective bargaining and advocacy, member engagement and education, and promotion of the value of professionals.

We believe in integrity, in respectful relationships, and in enlightened, innovative principles of labour relations