Building Stronger Stewards and Members: UAW Grievance Training in Action

Under the direction of UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith, UAW Region 8 Education Representative David “Shaggy” Firkins facilitated an intensive two-day grievance training and was accompanied by UAW Region 8 Servicing Representative Tom Williams.

UAW members from Locals 2926, 3058, and a representative from Local 862 Nurses unit participated in the training focused on Grievance Handling and Understanding Grievances on 4/14 and 4/15/2026.

The training brought together stewards and members committed to strengthening their ability to effectively represent their brothers and sisters on the shop floor. The sessions provided both foundational knowledge and practical tools necessary to identify, investigate, and process grievances with confidence and accuracy.

Participants engaged in detailed discussions on:

  •    Identifying contract violations

  •    Understanding the grievance procedure

  •    Proper documentation and investigation techniques

  •    Building strong, fact-based cases

  •    Communicating effectively with management

The true strength of the training was the stewards in attendance. Their engagement, willingness to learn, and commitment to standing up for their fellow members demonstrated exactly what solidarity looks like in action. From asking tough questions to working through real-life scenarios, these stewards showed they are ready to take on the responsibility of enforcing the contract and protecting workers’ rights on the shop floor.

Having representation from multiple locals—including UAW Locals 2926 and 3058, along with participation from Local 862 Nurses unit helped foster collaboration and the sharing of experiences across different shops and industries.

This training reflects the ongoing commitment of the UAW to equip its members with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect the contract and stand in solidarity on the job.