The Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA), affiliated with the AFL-CIO, has taken steps to enhance its organizing capacity by hiring two new organizers, Melissa Harter and J.J. Popio. These hires aim to bolster the union’s efforts in recruiting new members through both internal and external campaigns. The focus will be on increasing membership within the utility sector, which currently has low organizing rates, while also building on past successes in the renewable energy field.
“Organizing is our number one priority today,” stated UWUA President James Slevin. “We’re excited for Melissa and J.J. to hit the ground running. With this expanded capacity, we can help even more people experience better working conditions and better pay that comes with being a member of the UWUA.”
Melissa Harter brings over 17 years of experience from her work in coal generation, where she held roles such as senior performance and industrial hygienist. She also served for 11 years in leadership positions within Local 478. J.J. Popio has an extensive background as a utility worker in the gas sector spanning over 18 years, including his recent role as an executive officer for Local G-555 and as an executive board officer for the Tri-County Regional Labor Council, AFL-CIO.
Chartered in 1945, UWUA represents 45,000 active members across America’s utility sectors including electric, gas, water, and related professional and service industries. James Slevin serves as the National President of UWUA.
For further information about UWUA’s initiatives or membership details visit their website at https://uwua.net.
