David Green, Director of Region 2B of the United Auto Workers (UAW), joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the changing face of organized labor and the importance of constant organizing efforts.
As the head of the UAW's Region 2B, Green oversees approximately 60,000 active members across Ohio and Indiana. His region covers various industries, from traditional auto manufacturing to newer sectors of the UAW like healthcare and higher education.
Green highlighted the UAW's evolution beyond its traditional automotive roots. Today, the union represents workers in a wide array of industries, including healthcare, law enforcement, higher education and even beer brewing. This expansion into new sectors challenges the conventional perception of the UAW as solely an auto workers' union and demonstrates the organization's commitment to protecting workers' rights no matter the industry.
Green stressed the critical need for ongoing organizing efforts, especially in the face of potential challenges from new political administrations. He views organizing not just as a means of growth but as a form of job security for union representatives. Green pointed to the electric vehicle market as a target for the UAW to organize. He explained how EV manufacturers in the past attempted to avoid a union workforce, but the UAW has been proactive in ensuring worker protection.
To address these challenges, Green emphasized the importance of negotiating strong agreements that protect workers' interests, even as industries evolve. He pointed to recent successes in organizing battery plants and securing agreements that provide union representation for workers in new EV facilities.
Listen to the full episode of America's Workforce Union Podcast to hear more about the UAW's future strategies and Green's insights on the changing face of organized labor.