New delegates get introduction to convention

An amazing 104 new delegates attended last night's and this morning's New Delegate workshops. This is good news, meaning more and more new leaders are beginning to step up to be a voice for their union membership statewide.

The webinar, hosted by OCSEA Staff members Jeff Freeman and Angela Harrington, gave new attendees an introduction to the convention process. The attendees were also able to ask questions of long-time Parliamentarian Robert Walter, an expert on the convention procedure and rules set forth by the OCSEA Constitution and By-laws.

For delegates attending convention for the first time, like Ashland Chap. 0300 Vice President Kevin Rader (ODOT), it was eye-opening and "a lot more to it than I realized," said Kevin. "I’ve always wanted to get more involved and see how it all works," he said. Kevin said he impressed with the knowledge of the presenters. He also says that participating virtually isn't exactly how he envisioned his first convention to be, but "it will definitely be a unique experience." "Hopefully next time we'll all be together again face-to-face," he said.

Kevin said he's been looking forward to attending the Leadership Training Workshop so he can take skills back to his chapter members. He currently serves on his labor/management and health and safety committees. "We’ve got to protect our rights and make sure our voices are actually being heard," said Kevin who works on the public frontlines as a Highway Technician 3M in ODOT.