Non-union here. I took a small pay cut, about 6%, when I changed roles within my company about four years ago. It was a similar level of responsibility but it meant I wouldn't have to do shift work, so I think I came out ahead in the deal. Since then, I've taught myself how to program and automated the majority of my new workload, plus some responsibilities I've taken on from other departments. Projects that used to take someone in our department the better part of a month can now be done in a couple days.

So far my successes have earned me a couple solid pats on the back. I'm still making less than I was four years ago. I've given up on the idea of meritorious salary increases. If you want more money, you'd better keep that resume fresh.