News

We're Constantly Learning

soriano_804_square.jpgSome members become stewards because they’re natural leaders. Like Edwin Soriano, the Local Sort steward at Manhattan North.

“Before I was officially a steward, I was a “go-to guy”. I learned the contract and made myself available to help other members and do what is right.”

What’s different about being a steward? For Edwin it’s about learning and being willing to regularly check in about what’s going on.

“I’m constantly monitoring supervisors, checking time-cards, and checking in with our members how they’re doing,” says Edwin. “I’m kind of like an
investigator.”

What is most challenging? “Being brushed-off by management. We’ve got to keep our head together. It’s more important to follow through and build our case than blow up.”

“One of my biggest responsibilities is to be in constant communication with members,” explains Edwin. “I’m trying to encourage them, talking to them all the time about learning the contract and how grievances are filed.”

Edwin Soriano, Manhattan North, Local Sort

Finding Solutions

gallino_804_square.jpgStewards have to be approachable, the leaders who members can feel comfortable coming to with problems.

Rob Gallino, a package driver steward at the Suffolk building, doesn’t see himself as a “people-person”. But, he says, “somehow I’m
always talking and it feels like people are always coming up to share something with me.”

Rob recently started standing in for long-time Suffolk steward Chris Connolly.

“I learned everything by serving as an alternate steward under Chris,” he explains.

“He taught me the importance of really knowing the contract and that not everything
is a fight. We’ve got to help members figure out when to fight and when to find another
solution.”

“Also, we’ve got to be able to turn the page. It’s hard to work for UPS and if we think we're going to solve every problem right aways, we’re going to burn out and frustrate members.”

The credit Rob gives to Chris and other Local 804 leaders points to another quality that stewards have. They bring up new leaders behind them.

“We’re always looking to teach members more, and keep our eyes open for the members who might become stewards someday too.”

Rob Gallino, Suffolk, Package