Day 1: Looking Back at What Worked and What Needed Improvement and Review of Article 13
The meeting started on May 23 with a review of the previous ratification process. We talked about what went well and what didn't during that time. We had a good discussion where everyone shared their thoughts and ideas. Here are a few of the important things we talked about:
1. Things that went well:
The ratification process itself went well with few issues reported.
Sharing information with the membership went well after the initial flurry of misinformation was released.
Challenges we faced:
Accurate information took longer to share than it should have because of the steps we had to follow. We talked about finding ways to make the process faster and smoother next time. This is especially important as there was a massive disinformation campaign.
Communication avenues we used in the past were insufficient and we talked about if they still make sense for the future. Some platforms are still useful, but we need to expand the ways we communicate and consider the diverse way the entire group receives information.
There was a vigorous discussion as to whether another membership survey is needed. As a committee, we decided it was important to conduct another survey, but with questions designed by the rank-and-file members to better reflect your interests. It was determined that questions asked will include listing your top priorities for the next agreement approximating what was fielded in 2013. Look for the survey to launch sometime after the Principal Officers meeting at the end of June.
Before lunch we discussed the need for a system-wide membership education campaign around your right to a steward any time you are to be questioned in an investigation that may lead to discharge or discipline. This is particularly true when being questioned by corporate security. The company appears to have violated Article 18.O several times when corporate security conducts investigations. We will keep you posted as more information becomes available on this very important protection in the future.
After lunch we reviewed Article 13 Training. After an intensive review, we recognized that most of the issues we identified in the Article last year remain relevant and will need to be addressed in bargaining. This Article took us the remainder of the afternoon to discuss.
Day 2 Reviewing the New Airline Division App as well as Articles 3 and 7
On May 24th, we gathered to review the new Airline Division app that is in development. The purpose of the review was to assess its functionality, usability, and relevance to our needs. Here are the key points discussed during the session:
1Functionality:
We examined the app's features and assessed whether they aligned with the requirements outlined during the development phase.
The committee explored different functionalities such as updates, targeted notifications, and other relevant industry information.
We identified any potential issues or glitches that need to be addressed to ensure smooth operation.
Usability:
Participants tested the app's user interface and evaluated its ease of use.
We considered factors such as intuitive navigation, clear instructions, and efficient information retrieval.
Feedback was provided on areas where improvements or simplifications could enhance the overall user experience.
Relevance:
We compared the app's capabilities to the specific needs and goals of the Airline Division membership.
The committee analyzed whether the app adequately addressed the challenges faced by Division members and supported our needs.
Suggestions were made to align any necessary adjustments or enhancements with our membership’s objectives.
Overall, the meeting allowed for a comprehensive review of the new Airline Division app. Feedback and suggestions were shared to ensure that the app meets our needs effectively. The next steps involve addressing any identified issues, refining the app's functionality and usability, and aligning it closely with our requirements prior to launching it system wide. Given the nature and size of the group, the app will initially focus on the United membership before deploying to the whole Division.
We finished the day discussing Article 3 Covered Crafts Classifications and Bid Areas, as well as Article 7 Hours of Service. All three Articles discussed over the course of the two-day meeting are now ready to pass to the company when we reengage. The committee is determined to deliver you an industry leading agreement that you can truly be proud of. We are unwavering in that commitment to you because your skill and talent deserves nothing less.
Just prior to the conclusion of the meeting we discussed possible locations for the next meeting and discussed that the next meeting will occur after the Principal Officers meet in Washington D.C. on the 26th of June.
In solidarity,
Your Negotiating Committee