June 26, 2008

On May 31, Orlando-based Local 385 hosted a successful stewards seminar for more than 75 participants. The seminar, which focused on the various roles stewards have in the workplace, was coordinated by Iliana Flores, Southern Region Training Coordinator for the Teamsters Training and Development Department

"You are the backbone of our union,” said Mike Stapleton, Local 385 President, while welcoming the stewards. “You are the person the members look to first for guidance, representation, and leadership in the workplace.”

Stapleton also thanked them for taking time out of their busy schedules to attend the program and praised their commitment to their union and the members.

Throughout the day, a number of topics were covered, including the steward’s role and responsibilities, how to determine and handle grievances, the importance of DRIVE membership and Teamster history.

“The stewards’ enthusiasm and willingness to participate made the program a tremendous success,” Flores said. “I look forward to planning more training seminars for Local 385."

William Hooper said the seminar provided him with more knowledge on his rights as a steward and also the rights of our members.  

"The seminar was very useful and emphasized the importance of how unity leads to greater empowerment,” said Deidra Duffell. “That can make a big difference in the workplace.”

Sheila Harlan learned the importance of listening, note taking and evaluating each situation on its own merits. “It was extremely helpful to learn more about how to handle situations that come up,” she said.

The Teamsters Training and Development Department conducts more than 100 programs a year for stewards as part of its commitment to provide training for all levels of leadership within the union. Programs are held at the Teamsters Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and throughout the United States and Canada.