Today in Washington, DC, more than 120 Shop Stewards from Locals across the region took part in ATU’s revamped innovative Shop Steward training to prepare them for the job to represent our members.
International President John Costa kicked off day one of the training along with International Vice Presidents Anthony Garland and Amanda Sawyer-Turner.
“Our Union is taking a stand that we won’t stand for low wages, poor benefits, and disrespect. Just like our Local 689 Fairfax Connector workers who are on strike on the picket lines I was with yesterday. As shop stewards, you play an important role for your Local and our members,” Costa told the spirited group of attendees. “This training will help you prepare for those fights. We want to arm you with the skills and tactics to deal with issues and challenges facing our Locals and our members.”
Conducted by ATU International staff, the interactive training focused on the important role of Shop Stewards within their Local, along with discussions on leadership, organization, and communication. The attendees learned skills, strategies, and the rights of a Shop Steward to strengthen our Locals, protect our members, and prepare for the battles ahead. Featuring hands-on exercises, attendees learned their legal rights, bargaining tactics, grievance procedures and handling, and other duties of the job.
Thanks to our members from Locals 689-Washington, DC, 1177-Norfolk, VA, 1220-Richmond, VA, 1300-Baltimore, MD, 1328-Raleigh, NC, 1777-Olney, MD, and 1764-Washington, DC, who attended this engaging and important training to better serve our members and Locals.