Today was day one in Austin, Texas, where more than 75 Shop Stewards from Locals across Texas and Oklahoma took part in ATU’s revamped innovative Shop Steward training to prepare them to represent our members on the job.
International President John Costa kicked off the training along with International Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo, International Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk, and International Vice Presidents Ken Day and Arturo Aguilar, who work with Locals across the state.
“At the heart of every successful union is a dedicated group of people who are frontline defenders of workers’ rights – our Shop Stewards. You empower our members to advocate for fairness and equity in their workplace. You ensure every voice is heard and every person’s rights are upheld,” Costa told attendees. “Being a Shop Steward isn’t just a title. It’s a responsibility. It requires knowledge, skills, and dedication. This is what we’re here to do this weekend. This training is an investment in the future of the labor movement. So, learn as much as you can, and keep up the amazing work you’re doing.”
Conducted by ATU International staff, the interactive training focused on the important role of Shop Stewards within their Local and discussed 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.
With a mix of experienced and new Shop Stewards from Local 1091-Austin, TX, Local 1031-Beaumont, TX, Local 1338-Dallas, TX, Local 694-San Antonio, TX, Local 892-Tulsa, OK, and Local 993-Oklahoma City, OK, the training offered a unique opportunity to learn from the experience and expertise of their fellow Shop Stewards, fostering a sense of camaraderie and solidarity. Thank you to all our Stewards for everything you do for our Union.