Posts Categorized: Member Resources

On May 28, UFCW Local 1189 announced the official launch of their Meat Cutter Apprenticeship Program at St. Paul Technical College in St. Paul, Minn.

“It is with great pride that we launch the Meat Cutter Apprenticeship Program today,” said UFCW Local 1189 President Jim Gleb. “This year’s inaugural class makes up the first state registered meat cutting program in Minnesota in nearly three decades.”

“As a union that represents workers in meatpacking and food retail, we have seen firsthand how meat cutting jobs have disappeared in the past six years due to lack of training in the workforce,” Gleb added. “This program will provide a much-needed lifeline to the future of the profession in our state by giving UFCW members the expertise needed to take on such a skilled job and the increased pay that comes with it. UFCW Local 1189 is thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity to build the next generation of Minnesota union meat cutters and lift up the industry with well-trained, experienced union workers in the process.”

On April 22 to 26, the UFCW hosted the first “Strike School” conference in Chicago. Over 300 members and staff from UFCW locals across the U.S. and Canada attended the conference, which was designed to help locals better prepare their members for strikes during the negotiation process.

The conference included workshops about strike logistics and support; super servicing in preparation for bargaining; and how to communicate effectively while on strike. In addition, workshops also addressed on the ground coordination; strike safety; legal considerations related to unfair labor practice (ULP) and recognition strikes; research preparations and tactics related to different types of strikes; an in depth look at strikes pertaining to health care, ULPs, lockouts and other issues; and how to best engage with community and political allies during a strike. 

“The UFCW International’s Strike School was a key informational opportunity,” said Erika Steiner, who is a member of UFCW Local 919. “Not just for my local and me, but for all my brothers and sisters. After sharing my own personal experience on strike, I felt as though my voice was heard. The tools given in this short week will help for years of bargaining to come.”

“What a great learning opportunity, not only for myself but for all those in attendance,” said Dale Driskell, who is a member of UFCW Local 23D. “The information and instruction were top tier. Being able to break bread and discuss all the many topics and tactics with my fellow union brothers and sisters was an experience I will not soon forget. I look forward to more learning and growth opportunities to help strengthen and unify the UFCW to its highest potential.”

The UFCW is planning to host smaller regional Strike School conferences in the future. For more information about Strike School opportunities, contact your Region Director.