Posted October 3, 2006

1. Do you feel secure in your job?  

Absolutely. I feel totally secure. As long as I do my job, I'm protected by my contract. That’s not the case in non-union companies.  

2. Can you recall a situation where you felt your job might be in jeopardy?

Luckily, since I've been in a union job, I've felt totally secure. I still work hard every day, but don't feel like I always need to be worrying about the security of my job.  

3. How has being part of union company played a role in this?  

As a union worker, I have a voice. The grievance procedure at my location works extremely well. We get any issues resolved in a timely manner. Seniority is also important - you never forget the day that you get hired on. With the union comes certain benefits like getting time and a half after 8 hours. For many non-union workers, time and a half comes after 40 hours.  

4. What would you say to your friends and co-workers who feel their jobs might be in jeopardy?  

At my workplace, I always do what I can to reassure my friends and co-workers that their jobs aren't in jeopardy. This is why it's important to familiarize young people with the contract, just as my mentors did for me. We try to educate them as quickly as possible so they feel secure. As long as they do their job and give it their best effort, their rights are protected.  

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