Members at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory amp up their collective power and spark a current of change
In a display of unity and collective power, UPTE members at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) recently showcased what can be achieved when workers organize and fight for better working conditions. The primary issue faced by the Lawrence Livermore Lab members is uncompetitive wages, a reduced workforce due to employees leaving for better salaries elsewhere, increased stress and exhaustion among the workers due to the reduced workforce, and a sense of abandonment and lack of support from higher management. Members marched on their boss, highlighting the power of collective action in the face of these workplace issues.
David Tanono, who has been with the laboratory as an Electrician 1 in the high voltage group for over eight years, is crucial in maintaining the lab's power infrastructure. His journey from Cleveland, Ohio, to Livermore, California, was fueled by a family legacy in electrical utility work and a desire to contribute to the essential work at LLNL. However, despite their vital work for the federally-funded research and development center, David and his coworkers faced significant hurdles, leading to a diminishing workforce and hiring less qualified individuals. The obstructions at work affected the members' morale and compromised their ability to maintain operational standards.
"We've had meetings with the higher-up executives, right up to the director, Kimberly S. Budil," expressed David. "I invited her to our building and expressed to her the problem we're having attracting new talent and retention, and nothing seemed to have helped. We have had a big problem as far as us getting the money that we need to find and keep qualified high voltage electricians."
Recognizing that individual efforts were insufficient to address these issues, David and his colleagues turned to collective action. He emphasized, "The main thing is just sticking together as a group." That belief in the power of unity was the driving force behind the march on the lab's management, a demonstration of their solidarity and determination to advocate for fair compensation. "Everyone showed up and had the mindset of, 'This could be the beginning of increased wages where if the high voltage group gets a win, we could potentially have other wins for other crafts fighting the same fight.' So, the walk to the director's office was pretty positive. Whatever happens, it's a good show of support and just kind of overall a positive vibe going as we're marching."
The march was not just a demonstration but a symbol of shared struggle and commitment to change. It represented a significant step for the LLNL members in their ongoing fight for recognition and equitable treatment. The action involved meticulous planning and coordination. The march on the boss resulted in workers delivering a petition addressing these issues with a demand for market equity raise for high-voltage electricians to management.
"Everyone felt it was a pretty good start," continued David. "It was really the first time I knew of that action happening to that group—people coming together and doing something like that. So we all left there feeling pretty energized."
When workers come together, we can flex their muscles and feel empowered. As David succinctly put it, "Even though we had a small number, what could be accomplished could pick up steam going forward." The march may be one of many steps, but it marks a crucial moment in the journey toward fair treatment and better working conditions.
