Brandon Nicholson
BFP Technician, Weyerhaeuser
USW Local 1-184, Prince Albert, Sask.
For Brandon, forestry isn’t just a career – it’s a family legacy. His great-great-grandfather’s work in local mills set the stage for generations of his family in the forestry industry. Growing up, Brandon saw forestry as one of the few stable, rewarding career paths in his area. When a position at Weyerhaeuser opened up, offering union membership, year-round stability and strong benefits, he knew it was the right fit.
In his role as a BFP Technician, Brandon faces the daily challenge of monitoring and adjusting countless moving parts to keep operations running smoothly and safely. He finds satisfaction in tackling complex issues and takes pride in maintaining strict safety protocols, especially given the high risks of fire and explosion in his work environment.
The USW plays a critical role in Brandon’s workplace. Brandon’s advice for anyone entering forestry is clear: prioritize safety. In such a demanding industry, he encourages newcomers to stay proactive, ask questions and maintain a safety-focused mindset.
Nadia Crystal
Local Union President, BWXT Canada
USW Local 2859, Cambridge, Ont.
Nadia joined the nuclear industry for its positive impact on energy and health care. She views nuclear energy as a safe, reliable, low-carbon solution, with benefits across many fields, especially in medicine.
As Local 2859 President, Nadia values advocating for her coworkers’ rights and tackling daily challenges. She enjoys the continuous learning her role offers and works closely with union members to address issues and improve workplace conditions. A challenge she faces is proving herself as an equal in a male-dominated field.
The USW has greatly influenced Nadia’s work, securing better wages, job security and high safety standards. Her local was among the first to secure a full-time health and safety representative in the region, which was vital for enforcing safety protocols. The union has also equipped Nadia with leadership, communication and negotiation skills essential to her role. For those entering the nuclear field, Nadia recommends building strong communication skills and maintaining a work-life balance to thrive in this demanding industry.
March is a moment to celebrate International Women’s Day and women’s work in their union communities. This month, we’re proud to highlight Amanda Slack, a passionate union activist, USW District 6 Women of Steel Committee member and Vice-Chair of Sub-Local 1-500 at USW. She currently works at Hartmann Canada. Amanda started her union journey as […]
Baie-Comeau, March 28, 2025 – Standing tall and smiling broadly, the twenty or so female workers at Comfort Inn Baie-Comeau unanimously accepted their new employment contract. With yesterday’s 100% vote in favour of ratification, a strike that began on March 22, 2024, i.e., more than a year ago, is now over. Retroactive to August 2023, […]
Over many years, on multiple occasions, The USW has demonstrated the vital role that a strong, progressive, international union can play in helping to resolve ill-advised cross-border trade and political disputes.