Local 2251 nurturing emerging leaders through mentorship and education

Caption: Sam Taranto (left) and Jessica Fabbro (right) from USW Local 2251 attending the WSIB Level 4 training.

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In the classroom in the downtown Toronto Steelworkers Hall, a vibrant hub of learning, many eager members actively engage in educational classes organized by the Education Department.

The USW has a long history of championing solidarity and education, equipping members with the tools to advocate for workers’ rights. One of the courses provided, the WSIB Level 4 Return-to-work training program, is not just popular among the members, but also inspires and motivates them. The course is a testament to committing to fostering skill-building and mentorship.

Jessica Fabbro, currently the Women of Steel Committee co-chair and a WSIB/Occupational Disease Committee member representing Local 2251, recently completed the advanced training.

“This was my first time working on duty-to-accommodate cases,” she said. She added that the course was invaluable – not just for understanding legislation but also for learning how to navigate real-world situations and advocate effectively for our workers.

Sam Taranto’s mentorship has been a transformative force in Jessica’s journey. With 36 years of experience working with the locals, Sam brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the table.

Jessica shared her thoughts on Sam’s mentorship throughout the years, stating that his guidance and support have been not just valuable, but critical to making a change.

“Sam has not only taught me how to navigate complex situations, but his encouragement has given me the confidence to take on challenging cases within our union.” His mentorship is a testament to the power of guidance and support in our union’s growth and success.

Sam sees Jessica as a beacon of the direction she envisions for the union’s future. “Jessica’s fresh ideas and energy are exactly what we need. The mentoring here has reinforced the importance of sharing knowledge and embracing new ideas and perspectives.” This is the spirit that will shape our union’s future. 

The WSIB Level 4 program, provided by the USW, is a powerful tool that equips members with the knowledge and skills to navigate workplace accommodation, return to work and ensure fair treatment for all workers. More than just imparting knowledge, this training empowers members, instilling in them the confidence and capability to bring positive change to their own locals.

“As a Health and Safety Committee member, I took this course to better understand return-to-work processes and learn how to accommodate my colleagues,” said Linh from Local 9197. “It’s all about supporting each other.” This sense of mutual support and unity is the backbone of the union, making us strong and resilient in the face of challenges.

Francis D’Souza of Local 9197, who serves on his Grievance Committee, shared a similar sentiment. “This course gives me the tools to better support members and colleagues while ensuring accommodations are handled fairly,” he said.

Sherif from Local 3950 added, “Taking WSIB Level 4 has given me the skills to help my co-workers and support our members. It’s about standing together and making a difference.”  

Jessica has received transformative mentorship and education. “Programs like this show young members that they have a voice and the power to make a difference,” she said. When you feel equipped and supported, you’re more likely to get involved and help create meaningful change.

Sam emphasized the union’s responsibility to nurture emerging leaders.  “We’re seeing more young people and women joining the workforce, which is fantastic. It’s essential to pass on knowledge while embracing the fresh ideas they bring to the table and in conversations.”

As Elisabeth Brady of Local 2869 put it, “These courses have empowered and equipped us to strengthen our locals and truly make an impact.”

Together, Jessica and Sam, alongside other members inspired by programs like WSIB Level 4, are building a strong, more inclusive future for workers across the union. This sense of unity and collective action is what makes us all part of a larger movement. The combination of mentorship, education, and solidarity remains at the heart of what makes the United Steelworkers union exceptional.

For those who took the WSIB Level 4 course, WSIB Level 5 will be held in Sudbury on June 9-13.

For more information about the education program at the USW, contact Amanda Zakhour, District 6 Education Co-ordinator at azakhour@usw.ca.

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Caption: Sam Taranto (left) and Jessica Fabbro (right) from USW Local 2251 in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., at Algoma Steel, participating in a group activity during their WSIB Level 4 course.

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