Local 2783 Preps for Contract Talks at WWW
March 6, 2014
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| Members of IAM Local 2783 gathered at the William W. Winpisinger Center to prepare for upcoming negotiations with the Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in St. Mary’s, GA. First row, left to right: Joe Roberts (Steward), Paul Huesser (Trustee), Bob Branson (President). Second row: Bill Wethman (Conductor-Sentinel), Brian Danko, Bill Gideon, Jeffrey Bragg (Communicator). Third row: George Brown (Steward), Brad Lisk (Secretary-Treasurer), Jerome Rapley (Steward). |
IAM Local 2783 Bargaining Committee members at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in St. Mary’s, GA, are ready for upcoming contract talks after attending a Negotiating Preparation for Bargaining Committees class at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center.
Contract negotiations for IAM members at Kings Bay’s Strategic Weapons Facility Atlantic (SWFLANT) are quickly approaching, while the contract for Machinists at the base’s Trident Refit Facility (TRF) expires later this year.
Sequestration and furlough periods in 2013 caused delays in scheduling, but Local 2783 Trustee Paul Huesser was still able to lead three committee members from SWFLANT to develop a short-term strategic bargaining plan. The seven-member TRF committee, led by Local 2783 President Bob Branson, came together to create a long-range plan.
WWW Center Instructors Henry Bagwell and Greg Murray covered topics like team dynamics and drafting contract language, and had the committee members conduct a power analysis to develop their respective strategic plans. NFFE-IAM National Secretary-Treasurer William Fenaughty provided instruction on bargaining in the federal sector and appeals and organized a federal service impasse panel. Bill McFadden from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service presented interest base bargaining.
“Team members commented on the instruction received and the opportunity to address and receive invaluable information from a variety of staff instructors and speakers from the federal sector,” said Local President Bob Branson. “Years of experience and knowledge was shared and greatly appreciated. As always, our committee cannot forget to mention the entire staff at Winpisinger, who graciously welcome members, ensure comfortable amenities and address any and all needs that may arise during the training.”
