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Print copy of  The Steward: The Heart of our Union

The Steward:
The Heart of our Union

To many of our members, the Shop Steward is the Union. He or she is the first person a member will look to for guidance and interpretation of their collective agreement, and for informed representation when there is a dispute with the Company. By examining the various roles of a Steward, we can see that the strength of the IAM is rooted in this important job. 

The Steward’s job can be a difficult one. It seems that a Steward is expected to be many things to different people, often at the same time. By understanding and fulfilling a few key responsibilities, we can prevent many conflicts and misunderstandings from occurring in the first place. 

Steward as Representative

The IAM Steward is the member’s first line of defense in any grievance or complaint they may have with the company. Typically, the grievance procedure provides for the member to first try and resolve his or her differences with the supervisor or manager involved. This is an important step, as our Agreements require us to try to resolve differences at the lowest possible level. Unresolved problems should involve the Steward acting as the member’s representative, and may include reducing the grievance to writing. Failing resolution at this step, the Local Committee is called in. This is where a thorough investigation by the Steward is crucial to the success of a grievance. 

Steward as Communicator

As an IAM Steward, you keep Members informed of Union issues by maintaining the lines of communication between the Local, District, and the Members. You will also need to maintain a dialog with the Company; and act as a spokesperson for the Members of your work area. Remember, to be an effective communicator, you must become a good listener. 

Steward as Educator

Members often will have little knowledge about the Union. As a Steward, you are well-positioned to inform them about the organization they are a vital part of. 

All Members need to be current about their rights and responsibilities under the collective bargaining agreement. This does not mean that you must have all the answers. Consider yourself to be a resource person, one who is willing to say, “I’ll find the answer to that question, and get back to you.” 

Steward as Advisor

When a member has a problem or issue that is not a grievance, the Steward can provide a vehicle for that person to get assistance. You should listen carefully and be aware that such problems may be complex; if you do not have the answers, say so. Your job is not to know everything, but to do what you can. Just knowing the phone number of the Local Committee or the E.A.P. representative can be just as important. You’re not in this alone.