Introduction

The Basics

Operating the Union

Contract Administration

Organizing

Building Trades and
Other Organizations

Labor Law

Politics and Government

Useful Information

Education

References

Home

About This Field Guide

Craft work has always involved systematic instruction. Technical training in union construction truly is world-class. But construction workers' education about rights on the job and about unions is much more haphazard. For new officers and business agents, "learning the ropes" means facing complex challenges. A changing political and social climate for unions, open shop competition, technology development and regulatory demands all contribute to this complexity.

Perhaps you spent time preparing for your responsibilities by working with your predecessor, taking classes, or serving on various committees. Or, you might be among a new slate of local leaders that received only the keys to the office and the file cabinets. Regardless of your level of expertise, effective union leadership demands a more deliberate effort to acquire knowledge.

The Field Guide to Union Leadership is designed to be part of an overall education program within a local union. More experienced leaders will find a variety of reference material in this cd-rom. Leaders looking to build knowledge about specific topics will find a curriculum that ranges from internal business operations to organizing to labor history. Those who are just starting out will find basic information and help to get under way.

The Field Guide is a tool for leaders so they can:

	Understand their rights and responsibilities
	Understand the union's organizing mission
	Conduct the routine business of a union
	Develop local union power
	Build member commitment to the union
	Build solidarity with the wider labor movement