In September, Local 102 held its second annual leadership training, continuing its mission to equip new and younger members with the skills and confidence to lead. Over the week-long program, faculty from Penn State University’s Labor School led sessions on contract research, grievance writing, and identifying legitimate grievances, while also strengthening communication, conflict resolution, and member engagement skills. 
Forty-six stewards and officers from across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia participated in both fundamental and advanced workshops, fostering community and strengthening the local’s regional network. First-time attendees focused on basics, while returning participants tackled advanced conflict resolution and specialized breakout discussions.
Local 102 President Travis Beck said the training’s goal is twofold: building day-to-day competence and leadership confidence. “It’s about giving people the tools to handle issues on the ground and the leadership skills to move the organization forward,” he said.