August 19, 2026
Building Stronger Representatives
Through Grievance Handling Education
Under the direction of UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith and Assistant Director George Palmer, I had the opportunity to facilitate Understanding Grievances and Grievance Handling training at the UAW Local 129 and Local 848 Union Hall in Grand Prairie, Texas. Bringing representatives from four different UAW locals together created an opportunity to share experiences, strengthen our knowledge, and focus on one of our most important responsibilities as union representatives—protecting our members and enforcing the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Leadership from UAW Local 276, UAW Local 129, UAW Local 848, and UAW Local 870 participated in the training. The class brought together newly elected stewards and committee persons, alternate stewards, and experienced representatives already serving the membership. Regardless of experience, everyone came with the same purpose: to become stronger representatives for the members who depend on them every day.
Writing an effective grievance is about much more than putting words on paper. It begins with knowing the facts, asking the right questions, understanding the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and building a case that can stand up to the company.
Throughout the training, special emphasis was placed on properly completing the Fact Sheet and understanding the Seven Tests of Just Cause. These are critical tools for investigating grievances, challenging unjust discipline, identifying contractual violations, and making sure the company is held accountable.
Every representative left the class with more tools in their toolbox and a greater understanding of how to use those tools effectively on the shop floor.
During the training, Director Tim Smith called in and spoke directly with the leadership in attendance, thanking them for their hard work, dedication, and willingness to invest their time in becoming better representatives for our membership. His message reinforced something important: education is an investment not only in our leadership, but in every UAW member we represent.
Also in attendance were UAW Region 8 Servicing Representatives Jeff Hall and Darrell Shepherd, who serve members throughout the great state of Texas. They shared their knowledge, real-world experiences, and years of servicing expertise with the class, helping connect what was being taught in the classroom to situations representatives will face on the shop floor.
The real measure of this training begins when these leaders return to their facilities.
They are prepared to educate members about their Weingarten Rights, enforce the contractual language specific to their workplaces, investigate grievances thoroughly, and challenge the company when the Collective Bargaining Agreement is violated.
A strong contract is only as strong as our willingness and ability to enforce it.
The leadership from Locals 276, 129, 848, and 870 demonstrated that they are ready to take on that responsibility. They are returning to their shops better prepared, better educated, and ready to protect the rights of our UAW members.
Education builds knowledge. Knowledge builds confidence. And confident representatives build stronger locals.
That is how we continue building power for our membership throughout UAW Region 8.
In Solidarity,
David “Shaggy” Firkins
UAW Region 8
Education Representative |
