Crash Course for New Presidents
Everything a president needs to know to run an effective local union

Training

This two-day class is designed for local presidents elected within the last two years and those wanting a refresher course. The course will cover the basic knowledge you need as an AFT Local President, provide participatory training on useful leadership skills, and allow you to share best practices and challenges leader-to-leader. 

You will learn:

  • How AFT, CFT, and your local union function together, what resources are available to help in your work, and what opportunities exist to participate in union governance bodies and events;
  • The legal requirements of running unions that every officer should know, including the Duty of Fair Representation, and best practices for addressing issues around membership and status changes;
  • How to make the most of your right to participate in new employee orientations;
  • How to plan and run effective meetings;
  • Best practices in communicating with your members and the public;
  • How to identify, recruit, and develop other union leaders;
  • Networking with other local presidents to share experience and build support. 

Who should attend? This course is open to current local union presidents, and those who will be seated as presidents during 2019.

What to bring? It is recommended that you bring a laptop or tablet, your local union constitution and bylaws, and the most recent collective bargaining agreement.

Cost: The CFT covers the cost of all training materials, food, and overnight lodging.  Local unions are responsible for only the cost of travel to and from the Kellogg Center.

Registration for this course has closed.  If you want to attend, please contact Zev Kvitky to inquire about last-minute availability.