On June 7, members of the UWUA’s committees gathered in Pittsburgh for a National Committee Conference. It was the first time in my memory that our union convened a conference solely focused on the work of our committees, offering a valuable opportunity to meet face-to-face, reconnect, refine purposes, and plan for the future.
The day-long meeting brought together representatives from the Young Workers, Human Rights, Women’s, Safety, and Veterans committees. The mix of seasoned and newer members created a dynamic atmosphere that led to productive sessions.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to all who attended. Your presence demonstrated your dedication to the UWUA and our shared mission. The energy and excitement you brought were truly inspiring. Despite each committee operating independently with unique ideas and viewpoints, what stood out was our unity as one collective force — united as utility workers.
This unity, coupled with the infusion of new ideas, is what keeps our organization strong. The insights shared at this gathering have the potential to shape the future of our union, guiding us through upcoming challenges and opportunities.
In my mind, one of the UWUA’s greatest strengths is our structure. Unlike many other national unions, we operate with minimal hierarchy, allowing direct interaction between National staff and local members. This streamlined approach ensures every member has a voice and can contribute to the union’s direction. This open exchange was evident at the conference, where committee chairs, members, National representatives, executive board members, and National officers all engaged in meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
Our open and fluid structure is not just a byproduct of our union’s size but an intentional design. National representatives and officers want to hear directly from the locals, and vice versa. This open communication is a unique and valuable aspect of our union, ensuring ideas and information flow freely in all directions.
As we move forward, it is essential to recognize that our greatest asset is our members. You are the lifeblood of this union. Your passion, dedication, and willingness to engage in open dialogue make the UWUA strong. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or a new member, your ideas and perspectives are invaluable. Together, we can continue to build on the foundation laid by those before us, ensuring that our union remains a powerful advocate for utility workers across the country.
The energy and ideas that emerged from this National Committee gathering will propel us into the next generation of utility workers. By continuing to foster an open, inclusive environment where ideas can be shared freely, we are setting the stage for a bright and prosperous future.
To all who attended and contributed to the success of this conference, thank you. Your commitment to the UWUA and to each other is what makes our union strong. Let us continue to work together, drawing on our collective strengths, to ensure the Utility Workers Union of America remains a powerful force for good in the years to come.