Melissa Hopson
A union chief steward is a key leadership role within a union, responsible for overseeing and coordinating the activities of stewards in a workplace. As the primary point of contact between union members and management, the chief steward ensures that the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is being upheld and that workers’ rights are protected. They handle more complex grievances, provide guidance and support to other stewards, and often represent workers in meetings with management. The chief steward may also play a significant role in organizing union activities, addressing workplace issues, and advocating for improvements in working conditions, wages, or benefits. They are instrumental in fostering union solidarity and ensuring that the interests of the workers are effectively communicated and defended.
RSSA Shop Committee
Yo Phanmanivong-Chair
Walter Mantor
Katie Lennox
A union shop committee is a group of union representatives within the area served responsible for representing the interests of union members and ensuring that the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is properly enforced. They act as a liaison between the union and management, addressing issues like grievances, working conditions, wages, and benefits. The committee helps ensure that employees’ rights are upheld, often investigating complaints, holding meetings to educate workers about their rights, and supporting union organizing efforts. They also play a role in negotiating and advocating for new or improved contract terms. Essentially, the committee is there to maintain union solidarity and protect the workers’ collective interests.
The Shop Committee and Chief Steward are elected per the local lodge bylaws. Terms are 3 years.