Spring School 2025 offered an advanced track for experienced stewards through Stewards in Action III: Grievances at Final Step and Beyond. The course focused on complex case evaluation, legal research using Westlaw, and confidently navigating final-step grievances.
For Laura Macartney of Local 1568, the course was both educational and affirming.
“We learned how to research potential grievances and use tools like Westlaw. Connecting with other women who were progressing through stewards’ levels was empowering. We learned so much from each other’s experiences.”
Alborz Amouzgar (Local 8328) echoed that sentiment: “We learned how to research past cases and determine whether to move forward to arbitration. It’s a tough decision – and I understand how to make it with purpose.”
Participants worked through real grievance scenarios, learning how to support their decisions with legal research and strategic thinking. Amouzgar found the process both challenging and valuable: “It’s not just about knowing the right answer – it’s about making the best decision for your members and defending it with confidence. Whether it’s a win or a loss, the process taught me how to lead with purpose.”
Participants appreciated the opportunity to work through genuine grievance scenarios and learn how to make tough decisions about when to advance to arbitration.
Facilitator Adam Guizzetti (Local 2251) praised the students of Spring School this year: “They were engaged and energized. They showed strong critical thinking and a clear commitment to supporting their members.”
The course emphasized solidarity, strategy and steward empowerment, preparing participants to return to their locals with stronger skills and a deeper understanding of their vital role.
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter
Nearly two months after members of USW Local 14241-01 walked off the job at Salit Steel in Niagara Falls, workers remain united in their fight for a fair collective agreement. For Unit Chair Dan Plett, the past several weeks have brought uncertainty and stress, but they have also demonstrated the membership’s determination. “We just want […]
TORONTO – The Steelworkers Humanity Fund (SHF) is donating $30,000 to support individuals, families and communities evacuated by recent wildfires in British Columbia. Hot and dry conditions across much of British Columbia have contributed to another difficult wildfire season, forcing thousands of people from their homes and creating uncertainty for many communities. The United Steelworkers […]
Hundreds of USW Local 1998 members rallied across the University of Toronto’s three campuses to call on the university administration to respect their voices through the collective bargaining process. Approximately 500 members attended the St. George campus rally, with another 70 gathering at the university’s Mississauga campus and another 35 at the Scarborough campus. Members […]