October 29, 2026

UAW Region 8 Strengthens Workplace Representation
Through Grievance Training

October 26–27, 2026 | UAW Local 862 Union Hall | Louisville, Kentucky

There is a tremendous responsibility that comes with being elected or appointed to represent your fellow union members. When a member faces discipline, believes their contractual rights have been violated, or needs someone to stand beside them, they depend on their union representatives to know what to do and how to do it.

On October 26 and 27, 2026, I had the opportunity to facilitate Grievance Handling and Understanding Grievances training at the UAW Local 862 Union Hall in Louisville, Kentucky. In attendance were alternate stewards, full-time stewards, chairpersons, and local union presidents representing UAW Locals 3058, 3062, and 862.

What made this particular training stand out was that all but one of the participants were attending Grievance Handling training for the very first time. Rather than being overwhelmed by the amount of information presented, these representatives took it all in. They listened, asked questions, participated in discussions, and demonstrated a genuine desire to understand the responsibilities that come with representing their membership.

Throughout the two days, we worked through the grievance procedure and the importance of knowing not only what the collective bargaining agreement says, but how to use it effectively. We discussed the importance of gathering facts, investigating complaints, recognizing contractual violations, understanding timelines, and building grievances supported by evidence.

We also reinforced a critical principle of union representation: holding the company accountable goes beyond simply filing a grievance. It requires understanding and enforcing the collective bargaining agreement, applicable laws, established past practices, and company policies. These are the tools representatives must understand and be prepared to use when protecting the rights of their members.

One thing I have always believed is that a strong union representative doesn’t have to know every answer, but they must know how to find the answer, ask the right questions, and never be afraid to challenge management when our members’ rights are at stake.

I am confident that we provided these representatives with valuable tools for their toolbox. More importantly, I believe they left with a better understanding of when and how to use those tools. The real value of this training will be demonstrated when they return to their workplaces, put their knowledge into action, and hold the company accountable.

I was particularly encouraged by the commitment shown by these first-time participants. Their willingness to learn and absorb the material speaks volumes about the future of representation within their local unions. These are the individuals our members will turn to when they need answers, guidance, and someone willing to stand up for them.

This training was conducted under the direction and leadership of UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith and Assistant Director George Palmer, whose continued commitment to membership education helps ensure our representatives are prepared to meet the challenges they face in the workplace.

I would also like to thank UAW Region 8 Servicing Representative Tom Williams for assisting me throughout the training and sharing his knowledge and experience with the participants.

My appreciation also goes to UAW Local 862 for hosting the training and to every representative who attended and contributed to two productive days of learning.

When these representatives return to their local unions, they will carry more than training materials. They will carry new knowledge, greater confidence, and a responsibility to put what they have learned to work for the members who depend on them.

Our members deserve knowledgeable representation, our contracts deserve strong enforcement, and our employers must be held accountable. That is what this training was all about.

Together We Rise!

David “Shaggy” Firkins
UAW Region 8 Education Representative