October 22, 2026
UAW Region 8 Members Strengthen Their Skills at Black Lake Education Conference
ONAWAY, MICHIGAN | OCTOBER 2026
UAW Region 8 members are attending the UAW Education Conference at the Walter and May Reuther Family Education Center, commonly known as Black Lake, in Onaway, Michigan. Throughout the conference, members are gaining valuable knowledge, developing leadership skills, and preparing to become Effective Educators within their local unions.
During the conference, Region 8 members gathered for a regional breakout session with their UAW Education Representative. The session provided an opportunity to share experiences, ask questions, and discuss ways to strengthen educational opportunities throughout the region.
By the conclusion of the training, participating members are expected to become UAW Effective Educators, equipped to facilitate approved UAW educational classes at their home locals. Bringing this knowledge back to their local unions will help develop future leaders, strengthen solidarity, and encourage greater membership involvement.
Under the leadership of UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith and Assistant Director George Palmer, education continues to be a priority throughout the region. Their commitment to educational opportunities helps build stronger local unions and a stronger UAW.
“Education is more than what we learn in a classroom. It is what we take back to our local unions and share with our brothers and sisters. When we give members the tools and confidence to educate others, we build stronger locals, stronger leaders, and a stronger UAW.”
— David “Shaggy” Firkins, UAW Region 8 Education Representative
Congratulations to all Region 8 members participating in this important training. We look forward to seeing them put their new knowledge and skills into action at their local unions.
An Educated Membership Is a Stronger Membership! |
