Tuesday, August 12, 2025
9:00 am – 10:30 am BLOCK
- Arbitration
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Betzabeth Sanchez, Arbitration Specialist, AFT CT
- Demystifying arbitration is an interactive workshop designed for union stewards, activists, and local leaders that pulls back the curtain on the arbitration process. Participants will learn to assess the merit of grievances, navigate each step of the arbitration process, and distinguish between discipline and contract cases. We will cover key preparation techniques, including crafting requests for information (RFIs) and explore mediation and settlement strategies before diving into remedies.
- Register to participate.
10:45 am-12:00 pm BLOCK
- First Friend Best Friend
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Jennifer Benevento, Professional Development & Issues Coordinator, AFT CT
- This workshop examines the role of stewards to become each new hire’s “First Friend, Best Friend,” guaranteeing a high-quality, personal welcome that immediately links the union to day-to-day success. Participants will learn how minutes (not hours!) long conversations that start with listening and focusing on the new hire’s surface survival needs help prove the union’s relevance before the first week is out. We’ll cover outreach essentials—face-to-face follow-ups and workplace navigation tips—and adopt the simple pledge, “Your success on the job is a priority of your union.”
- Register to participate.
- Union Financials / Treasurer Training
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Stephanie Burnham, Chief Financial Officer, AFT CT
- This hands-on workshop will equip union treasurers and leaders with the knowledge and tools to manage their local’s finances with confidence and transparency. We’ll cover the core duties and responsibilities of the treasurer and discuss effective accounting systems that establish internal controls for cash disbursements and receipts. You’ll learn best practices for handling membership dues, agency fees, per capita taxes, budgeting, treasurer reports, and guidelines for audits and financial reviews. Finally, we’ll walk through federal and state reporting requirements to ensure your local stays compliant and builds trust with its membership.
- Register to participate.
- How to Run an Effective Union Meeting
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Emily Demicco, Field Rep, AFT CT
Structured and well run union meetings are the cornerstone of democratic member participation and collective decision making. In this interactive workshop, participants will gain a clear understanding of Robert’s Rules of Order and how they structure fair, efficient discussions. You’ll learn to apply these rules to ensure your meetings are democratic, inclusive, and focused. Through guided exercises, you’ll explore strategies tailored to the unique needs of your own local, and leave with ways to advance your union’s meeting goals. - Register to participate.
12:45 pm-2:00 pm BLOCK
- How to Write a Grievance
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Liz Guerra, Field Rep, AFT CT
In this fast-paced skills lab, union stewards and activists will learn how to turn workplace facts into winning grievances. We begin by locking down the “Six W’s” — who, what, when, where, why and witnesses — to be sure every essential fact is captured. Participants then see how an effective grievance stays concise, strictly factual and free of opinion or extra argument. Using that model, you’ll practice drafting a one-paragraph statement that cites the violated article plus “any other relevant provisions” and spells out a make-them-whole remedy, leaving with a polished template you can adapt for your local. - Register to participate.
- Constitution & Bylaws — Best Practices
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Caid Murray, Field Rep, AFT CT
- In this hands-on clinic, local officers and activists learn how to overhaul their constitutions and bylaws by aligning every article with higher-level constitutions and laws, using plain, inclusive language, embedding transparent fiscal controls and building in virtual meeting flexibility. In this workshop we spotlight common red flags such as ambiguous officer duties and unrealistic quorum rules. Participants will leave with a Bylaws Inventory Checklist to identify gaps and draft real-time fixes for their own locals. We close by mapping out a standing Governance Committee, annual “health checks,” and a 3-5 year full review cycle so bylaws stay current, compliant, and member-driven .
- Register to participate.
- Intro to Union Communication Tools
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Matt O’Connor, Communications Coordinator, AFT CT & Anna Mowrey, Support Staff, AFT CT
- This introductory-level training session on strategic campaign communications planning is back by popular demand! Learn about online tools available at no additional cost for affiliates that support data management, local websites, e-mail messaging, mass texting and legislative advocacy. Additionally, find out how communications department staff can train and assist leaders with internal membership engagement, community outreach and public relations.
- Register to participate.
2:15 pm-3:30 pm BLOCK
- Advanced Steward Training
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Ed Leavy, Field Rep, AFT CT
- This advanced-level course is an essential opportunity for stewards and reps looking to sharpen their skills and become more effective in their role. Whether you’re dealing with difficult grievances or trying to strengthen your union’s presence, the insights gained here will help you navigate challenges with confidence and advocate for your coworkers with even greater impact.
- Register to participate.
- Connect Membership Database
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Hannah Roe, Membership, Data & Analytics State Lead, AFT
- In this introductory webinar you will be shown how to manage your membership data. This includes entering and editing members’ information, downloading lists, and many other useful tips for using AFT Connect.
- Register to participate.
- AI for Drafting Testimony
- Virtual
- Presenter(s): Teri Merisotis, Legislative Advocate, AFT CT
- Are you passionate about advocating for the work needs and benefits of your community, but struggle with finding the right words? In this quick and fun virtual workshop, we’ll show you how to use AI to easily create compelling stories that can make a real impact. If you don’t like to write, feel intimidated by the process, don’t know where to start, or just don’t have the time – we’ve got you covered! We’ll teach you how AI can help you create a draft in minutes, giving you a starting point that you can personalize in your own voice. You’ll also learn how AI can help you understand and summarize legislation and research policy ideas and best practices from other States.
- Register to participate.
5:00 pm-7:00 pm BLOCK
- Dinner + The Organizing Conversation
- In Person – Soifer Room @ AFT CT, 35 Marshall Rd, Rocky Hill, CT
- Presenter(s): Eric Borlaug, Director of Organizing, AFT CT & Nickimmy Hayes, Organizer, AFT CT
- This interactive training equips union stewards, leaders, and activists with the foundational framework of the union organizing conversation. Participants will learn how to navigate common objections, build support through one-on-one dialogue, and sharpen their skills through guided role play. Whether you’re new to organizing or looking to strengthen your technique, this workshop offers practical tools to move members to action.
- Register to participate.
