Pipefitters Local 208, one of the largest and most politically active trade unions in Colorado, endorsed Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jared Polis on Thursday, praising the Boulder congressman’s vision for the state’s economy.

“We are very excited to announce our endorsement of Jared Polis for governor,” said Gary Arnold, the union’s business manager, in a statement. “Jared has a long history in partnering with Pipefitters Local 208 to protect workers’ rights, fight for a livable wage, support project labor agreements, and improve our state’s infrastructure. His bold vision to build a Colorado economy that works for everyone is refreshing, and we are ready to stand strongly behind him to help him make that vision a reality.”

Arnold said the Denver-based union, which represents some 1,800 skilled tradespeople, plans to start mobilizing its members to back Polis at precinct caucuses on March 6.

Saying he believes Colorado needs a “stronger labor movement,” Polis lauded the Pipefitters’ apprenticeship program as an example of the kind of skilled training that expands economic opportunity and said he’s honored to have the union’s support.

“For too many working families in Colorado, wages have stayed stagnant while the cost of living has skyrocketed,” Polis said in a statement. “As governor, I want to build an economy where working Coloradans don’t just exist but actually get ahead, buy homes, afford health care and save for retirement.”

It’s the second time the union has made an endorsement in the gubernatorial race. Nine months ago, Pipefitters Local 208 threw its support behind U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter, but the Arvada Democrat withdrew from the race soon after and later announced he would seek a seventh term in Congress.

Labor unions have been spreading their love in the crowded contest. Polis won a key early endorsement from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers’ Colorado State Conference of Electrical Workers last fall – but former State Treasurer Cary Kennedy got the nod from the Colorado Springs-based Pipefitters Local 58 union in January and last week received the backing of two powerful teacher’s unions, the Colorado Education Association and the state chapter of the American Federation of Teachers.

Other leading Democrats running to succeed term-limited Gov. John Hickenlooper include Lt. Gov. Donna Lynne, former state Sen. Mike Johnston and plastics manufacturer and civic leader Noel Ginsburg.

Nine Republicans are also running for governor.

Colorado’s primary is June 26.