Meet your UC bargaining team: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory representative
Securing strong contracts requires more than just skilled negotiators; it hinges on the active involvement of frontline members from every campus and lab across diverse job titles. Our daily experiences make us the true subject matter experts, giving us unique insights into what is needed to drive forward our groundbreaking research, deliver critical patient care, and ensure our technical skills are duly recognized.
The 25 dedicated members comprise the UPTE bargaining team at the University of California (UC). They represent a variety of healthcare, research, and technical positions across all UC campuses and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). Each month, we will spotlight different members of our bargaining team from various UC locations and departments. You can view the complete list of our bargaining team members here.
Eduardo de Ugarte is a Senior Graphic Designer and UPTE Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Chapter 184 Chair.
What motivated you to run for the bargaining team?
“I am motivated to advocate for fair treatment, living wages, and better working conditions for the workforce. Collective bargaining ensures everyone’s voice is heard and benefits all members. I aim to create a supportive and equitable work environment that respects everyone’s rights and needs. We’ve found many opportunities to improve retention, recruitment, efficiency, and morale, supporting our research, healthcare services, patient outcomes, and the mission of LBNL and UC.”
What’s the number one issue you hear about from your coworkers?
“In our priorities campaign, many issues came up, from reclassifications/promotions to equity increases, from work-life balance to career development and education, from health and safety to job security. But the most important issue to LBNL workers is making a competitive living wage in the most expensive region in the United States to combat the skyrocketing cost of basic needs, recruiting and retention issues for our employer, and rising challenges and expenses of retirement, healthcare, and housing. Significant raises are paramount!”
How does working at a research and development center differ from a traditional university campus or medical center?
“Federally funded research and development centers focus on specific research goals and technological advancements with specialized equipment and significant government funding, often collaborating on large-scale projects. These institutions frequently collaborate with other research organizations, industry partners, and government agencies. Their work often has a significant impact on technology and policy, and they may address large-scale scientific challenges.
In contrast, universities balance teaching, research, and community engagement across diverse disciplines, while medical centers prioritize patient care, clinical research, and healthcare services. With universities, collaboration often involves other academic institutions and sometimes industry partners. The impact is broad, affecting various fields of study and contributing to the education and development of students. Medical centers usually involve partnerships with other healthcare providers, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies. The focus is on advancing medical research and improving patient care.”
How do your coworkers approach workplace issues that may vary from those on the UC campuses?
“National laboratory workers focus on technical precision, safety protocols, and efficient use of specialized equipment, addressing issues collaboratively. Problem-solving often involves collaborative efforts to address technical or scientific challenges. Universities balance teaching and research, emphasizing academic freedom and interdisciplinary collaboration. Health centers prioritize clinical protocols, patient safety, and healthcare regulations, focusing on patient outcomes and compliance.”
How do you use your creative work as a graphic designer and illustrator in a challenging and complicated science environment?
“Graphic designers and illustrators at national laboratories play a crucial role in visualizing research findings, creating educational materials, maintaining branding, designing user interfaces, producing scientific illustrations, collaborating on interdisciplinary projects, enhancing event experiences, and making complex scientific data accessible and engaging.”
What role does the Berkeley Lab play in the larger UC system?
“LBNL, sponsored by the Department of Energy and administered by UC, excels in scientific research across disciplines, fostering collaboration, innovation, and educational opportunities. It enhances the UC system's reputation, translating research into practical applications, and engaging in public outreach to promote science education. The Berkeley Lab slogan asserts ‘Bringing Science Solutions to the World.’”
