A new training course that is being specifically tailored for IUOE organizers in each of the provinces was put through its paces in Oakville this week.
Tapping into the experiences of organizers and staff from Locals across the country, the IUOE Canadian Region Organizing Course aims to distill that expertise into a three-day course that will give new organizers the skills they need to succeed in their roles.
Attended by IUOE Canadian Regional Director Patrick Campbell, International Representative André Chenier and other subject matter experts from Local 793 and across the country, the event was aimed at testing the course material and gathering feedback that will be used to inform the final product.
“At the request of all Canadian IUOE business managers and with the support of IUOE General President James T. Callahan, the Canadian Regional office set out to develop a comprehensive Canada-wide organizing course,” Campbell said.
“Under the direction of International Representative André Chenier, the province-specific course was developed on March 21 and 22 as organizing subject matter experts came together from across Canada to vet the draft course content to ensure all the necessary tools are available to grow the Canadian IUOE membership.
“I want to thank all the participants – as well as give a special thanks to Local 793 Business Manager Michael Gallagher for hosting this critically important event.”
The course content will cover elements such as the different labour laws that exist in each province, effective communication, and research techniques. Local 793’s successful organizing of the Baffinland mine in Nunavut will also be included as a real-world example of how to conduct an effective organizing drive.
Local 793 Director of Organizing Kyle Schutte predicted the new course will provide long-term benefits once it is rolled out across the country.
“We had seasoned organizers from across the country in attendance, including Local 793 Vice President Dave Turple. With a group like that, things just flow. The discussion alone provided the International with tremendous feedback that will surely help new hires for years to come.”
