USW Local 2-232

formerly PACE 7-232

Representing  employees at Briggs & Stratton Corp. and Strattec Security Corp. in Milwaukee, WI

Strattec Plant Grievance Rep

By Karl Schneider (From Local 7-232 Reporter)

             I would like to congratulate everyone that was elected to his or her respective positions. I also want to thank all our members that took the time and effort to vote. And while I am on the subject, I am encouraging all members to register and vote. We need to elect labor friendly candidates, especially in Congress. One other item while on the subject of politics and government, don’t forget to fill out and return your census.

            As all of you know by now, the PIC training overview started back in February. I do not expect everyone to embrace PIC. However, I rather be in the room as part of the decision making as opposed to on the outside looking in. Your elected union officers support PIC, some more than others. Upper management also supports it. I believe if I use the PIC process properly, it will not matter if I am a piece worker, a w.g.l., a set-up person, a b.u.m. a grievance rep or a plant manager. I could go on and list every job at Strattec. My voice will be equal if I follow the process.

            Will be make mistakes along the way? Yes. Can we go back and try to correct our mistakes? Absolutely. I think the key is to keep training and practicing PIC.

Communication is also huge

            I had an opportunity to visit John Deere Horicon Works. They started their version of PIC right around 1991. I talked to a number of their members. Every day is not a bed of roses. They still have problems. They have a 30% turnover rate in employment. They have grievances. They have problems with wages. But they also have respect for each other. There was a foreman there that said  “If I have an unhappy worker it is my fault because of the way I manage.”

            The afternoon training was held at the union office. You might think what is the big deal Karl? I thought it was a very big deal because UNION and MANAGEMENT worked together at the union hall to give the training.

Petition being circulated