MINNEAPOLIS – The deadline is Jan. 5 to apply for the Minnesota Union Leadership Program, a new training opportunity from the University of Minnesota Labor Education Service. LES also announced three basic skills courses in coming months.
The Minnesota Union Leadership Program is an innovative educational experience tailored to the needs of union officers and staff. It is offered in cooperation with the Minnesota AFL-CIO. The program goes beyond regular skills training to provide the opportunity for top leaders — and emerging leaders — to develop a deeper understanding of the critical issues affecting working people in Minnesota. View a brochure and application at www.les.csom.umn.edu or call 612-624-5020 to receive one.
LES also is offering three basic skills courses in the next few months. Classes will be on the university’s Minneapolis campus and are open to all, but registration is required. Call 612-624-5020 to register or for more information. Here is the schedule:
Introduction to the Labor Movement January 30, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. An overview of the labor movement – its successes and challenges – in a global context. Learn the structure, organization and evolution of the movement, the impact of union membership on workers and communities and discuss future directions. Taught by Mary Bellman and Randy Croce of the LES staff. Cost is $50.
Contract Negotiations March 13 & 20, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Designed for new and experienced negotiators desiring to sharpen their skills. Examines the legal framework for collective bargaining, the concept of bargaining power, negotiations preparation, costing contract proposals and drafting contract language. Students will apply learned skills by negotiating a contract in a bargaining simulation. Taught by Steve Lucht, LES adjunct instructor. Cost is $100. Call 612-624-5020 to register or for more information.
Basic Arbitration April 10 & 17, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Covers the principles that arbitrators rely on to decide cases, development of evidence, preparation of witnesses and such issues as discipline, past practices, workers’ rights and management rights. Taught by John Remington of the LES staff. Cost is $100.