January 30, 2026
Grievance Training At Local 42
The UAW Region 8 Grievance Handling Training was conducted this week with the committee at UAW Local 42 at the Volkswagen facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This training served as an important step in strengthening the committee’s ability to effectively represent the membership through informed, strategic, and contractually sound grievance handling. The session was supported by Jim Bledsoe, UAW Region 8 Servicing Representative, who was in attendance to provide guidance and assistance throughout the training. UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith fully supported the initiative and emphasized the importance of delivering UAW education as quickly as possible to ensure committees are prepared to meet the challenges they may face on the shop floor.
It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to visit UAW Local 42, as well as locals across Region 8, to facilitate education that provides members with the knowledge, confidence, and tools necessary to be successful in grievance handling. These types of trainings are essential to building strong, informed committees that are ready to advocate for workers and uphold the collective bargaining agreement. This committee has demonstrated a clear commitment to learning and preparing themselves for the work ahead, and I am confident they will be ready to hit the ground running when the need arises.
I was especially encouraged and excited when the committee requested that the grievance handling curriculum from the UAW Education Department be delivered. Throughout the training, the committee showed strong engagement, asked thoughtful questions, and absorbed the material presented. They are now better equipped to address violations related to the contract, past practice, company policies, and applicable laws. Their readiness and determination reflect the seriousness with which they take their responsibility to defend the rights of the membership.
UAW Local 42 continues to strengthen its foundation through education, and this training further reinforces the principle that knowledge truly is power. This is a solid committee with a strong future ahead, and I am confident they will represent the membership to the fullest in accordance with their collective bargaining agreement. Thank you to the UAW Local 42 committee for your commitment, dedication, and willingness to step up on behalf of your fellow members. Your work is critical to protecting workers’ rights, and your efforts do not go unnoticed.
David “Shaggy” Firkins
UAW Region 8
Education Representative
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