Striving and Savoring: The Journey of a Dedicated Union Representative
From 1986 to 2018, my career as a full-time representative for the Machinists Union was both challenging and fulfilling. During this period, I took on the responsibility of handling communications for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) in the state of Connecticut, a role I held from 1990 to 2002.
Breaking Through Barriers: Agency Shop at Pratt Whitney
In 1991, we successfully achieved the agency shop at Pratt Whitney, a long-term union goal that had been in pursuit for 45 years. However, the company's attempts to re-open the contract and accept concessions in 1993 catapulted us into a difficult negotiation phase. Through these negotiations, we managed to add healthcare fees to the contract without reducing wages.
Emotional Rollercoaster in Defense of Jobs
The battles in the shop, at the bargaining table, and in the courts to keep Pratt jobs in Connecticut were both emotionally draining and resolute. Two separate court injunctions were secured, compelling Pratt to return work to Connecticut. In 2001, we secured one of the best job security contracts in the country.
At the heart of these negotiations was a relentless pursuit of fairness and the well-being of our members. Meetings with members of Congress, the Governor of Connecticut, the Secretary of Labor, and even White House representatives were frequent. Coordinate and respond to media requests from various state, national, and international press.
The Unbreakable Will to Fight
Every night, the thought of what we could do the next day to bolster our case motivated my mindset. Like a kinspinner, I felt that every effort was crucial to maintaining our position and securing our members' future. I was driven by a sense of purpose that kept me going, even in the most exhausting phases.
The satisfaction derived from these endeavors was profound. It was not solely about enjoyment, but about the relentless fight for the betterment of others. Every negotiation, every media request, and every meeting was a step closer to victory for our union.
Lessons Learned: The Importance of Persistence
Through this experience, I learned the invaluable lesson that persistence is key. No matter how insurmountable the obstacles, or how exhausting the journey, as long as there is a commitment to the cause, success can be achieved. The dedication and hard work of my colleagues and I made a significant impact, and we can take pride in our collective efforts.
My journey as a union representative was not just about the challenges but the satisfaction of knowing that we were making a difference. It was a testament to the power of collective effort and the importance of staying true to one's purpose.