By Tom Edmonds

Hello Brothers and Sisters,

Fall is rapidly approaching, and colors will soon be changing.

I hope everyone enjoyed their Labor Day weekend. Remember, it was “brought to you by the Union!” Let’s not forget the sacrifices, strikes, sit-downs, tough bargaining, and the negotiating that went on to get us these holidays, weekends, and 40 hours.

We have been celebrating this important holiday for over 120 years. It’s more that just a long weekend. It’s a statement to the “company” that we’re not machines, and we’ll fight to be treated like humans.

Next, I would like to welcome our two new diemakers to NAETC- Cory Hibbs, and Lucas Lundberg. I’m hoping you both have long and prosperous careers here at Plant 38.

We should also be getting a new machine repairman soon, a new toolmaker, and possibly a die designer (EDC) as well. We are waiting for final approval on that.

Workload continues to be the same as a month ago, continuing to hover around 7-8 die lines on the floor with a similar workload design and engineering.

Design and engineering have some work subcontracted, triggering utilization liability in design and DPE. I’d rather we have the manpower to not have to subcontract, but that topic is an ongoing battle.

The Shop Committees’ position is and continues to be “the building is open 24-7 and our people should be doing all our work until those avenues have all been exhausted.” Budget and timing seem to be the motivating factor for the 3rd floor. We will continue to have our position on this issue.

That is all for now. Enjoy your month and the beginning of fall.