In recent months, our Officers and Representatives have been handling Company issues, observing industry concerns, and collaborating on ongoing matters by sharing information. We've begun Station Visits to bring the Union to members out in the workplace. Progress is slow, but we'll reach all locations to meet most members eventually. Each workgroup and location is different and may experience similar yet different challenges, so there is not a “one size fits all approach”. I encourage you all to continue to reach out directly to AMFA Officers and Reps as your first point of contact. We can help offer clarification, support, and resolve workplace issues or stressful situations you may be facing.
For members at Southwest Airlines, I want to address some of the systemic issues regarding workplace compliance and emphasize that safety is paramount in our industry. In response to the recent engine cowling incidents, the Company has taken severe measures to prevent future occurrences. When incidents like this happen, the Company implements a solution that affects everyone, as mechanical failures attract public scrutiny, tarnishing a Company's image and reputation. As professionals, it's our responsibility to consistently uphold high standards daily and ensure safe and quality work on aircraft. Following maintenance procedures correctly prevents potential issues from escalating. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, including fines and suspension of your certificate/license. More importantly, it may result in potential job loss, putting additional pressures on the Union to handle termination cases. I encourage everyone to take additional steps in checking your work and make sure you are comfortable with the task that is being performed, if you need help don't hesitate to seek assistance.
Also at SWA, there is significant concern about a private investment group (Elliott) acquiring Company stock/shares and pushing for significant business changes. Despite rumors and opinions, the Company has not made any changes yet. The Company has contacted all Labor groups on property to arrange meetings with Union leadership for updates on developments. New developments are ongoing; for accurate updates, members are recommended to stay connected with Union leaders as there is much speculation and very little solid information available. AMFA will maintain a neutral stance on this issue, prioritizing the well-being of its members and the Association. I will do my best to keep members informed of internal workgroup updates and their impacts on the Local and Association as this matter unfolds.
At L3 Harris - MAS, AMFA has voiced serious concerns about pay, pension, and benefit errors. To date there has been no movement by L3 management to correct the errors or even sit down with the union to find solutions, therefore AMFA is demanding a full audit with external auditors. Ethics complaints and investigatory hearings have led to the termination of 4 members, breaching contractual just cause provisions. As the Company has turned towards extreme disciplinary actions, we believe they have violated the collective bargaining agreement by not following the principles of just cause discipline fairly towards those employees.
At the Trenton facility, there is also a shortage of aircraft maintenance engineers and mechanics due to increased resignations, a strained relationship between employees and leadership, and a deteriorating Company culture. Although we can't resolve the manpower shortage, our focus as a Union is to execute beneficial programs to address concerns, protect members, and efficiently resolve issues. The Union is considering meeting with L3 leadership to suggest the implementation of a Professional Standards Committee and a Safety Representative role to address future workplace concerns. Additionally, the aviation sector in Canada lacks worker protections for maintenance personnel. National has contacted government officials to initiate aviation programs in Canada, seeking to establish ASAP standards and whistleblower protections for Canadian AME’s and mechanics. Responses from Canadian authorities are pending, but stay tuned for future updates as this situation develops. Please be vigilant at work, stay aware of your surroundings, and understand work policies. Share your concerns with the Union and discuss with your ALR and Shop Reps to work together on finding solutions to any issues you may face.
During our last GMM in April, we introduced two new processes. These included a digital PowerPoint format to accompany reports, preparing members for possible video-conferencing participation in future meetings. Additionally, we held a membership appreciation raffle for regular attendees, offering gift cards linked to our Online Store. Going forward, we will evaluate these changes for future improvements.
After the Local website received a refresh, additional updates were made to enhance member navigation and engagement, utilizing technology for an improved user experience. Recently, all Locals including National have upgraded the site software to display your AMFA number on the main page once logged in, a convenient feature for the entire membership. The linked website registration database is still in progress and that may take some time.
Voting instructions and details for the Local 4 Bylaws have been sent out to everyone. This final step will complete the ratification of the 2024 Bylaws, with 30 proposals up for voting. Voting began on June 10th and will end next week on June 30th. Additionally, at the National Convention, all 57 constitutional proposals were reviewed and debated with clear intentions in the members' interests. Delegates ruled to advance 19 of those proposals for a membership ratification that will be conducted in July via mail-out ballots. Member participation in both of these voting initiatives is very important as they both shape our Union and how we operate. I advocate for everyone to take part in this democratic process.
Please stay safe, be compliant, engage within your Union, and join our next GMM on Wednesday, July 24th. We welcome all members to participate.
