2026 Deadline to Apply: April 24, 2026
The Pacific Region is excited to offer a series of courses designed to get back to basics, empower members, and strengthen essential union skills. Learn, engage, and build solidarity!
Basic Shop Steward Course (2 Classes)
Stewards are the backbone of the union! This course is offered twice to give more members the opportunity to participate. For new stewards to gain knowledge and confidence.
Topics Include:
- Roles and responsibilities of a shop steward
- Investigating and filing grievances
- Effective communication skills
- Shop steward rights
- Steward as organizer/mobilizer
- Key provisions of the Collective Agreement
*Note: Specifically for new stewards
Grievance Handling
Take your skills to the next level! This course goes beyond the basics to strengthen grievance preparation and advocacy.
Topics Include:
- Shop steward rights and responsibilities
- Distinguishing fact from opinion
- Documentation for strong grievances
- Active listening and duty of fair representation
- Assertiveness in preparing and arguing grievances
*Ideal For: Members responsible for grievances or stewards who want to improve their grievance handling skills
Harassment & Violence in the Workplace
Stay informed and empowered to create a safe workplace.
Participants Will Learn:
- What constitutes harassment and violence
- Responsibilities of employer, union, and members
- Avenues for redress, including the Notice of Occurrence (NOO) process
- Assertiveness skills to address harassment/violence
“Raise your words, not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.” – Rumi
General Information for Applicants
• Meals for companions are not included
• Chartered bus is for participants only
• Car rentals not authorized
• Uber receipts will not be reimbursed
• Only original receipts accepted for expenses
General Information for Local Executives
- Lost Wages: Locals are responsible for covering the lost wages of participants for this event.
- Application Submission: All application forms must be signed and submitted by the Local President or their designate
- Where to Submit: Signed and completed applications must be sent directly to the Regional Office. They can be submitted:
- By mail: CUPW Pacific Region, 999 Carnarvon Street, New Westminster, B.C. V3M 1G2
- By fax: (604) 525-6821
Deadline: The deadline for registration is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026.
Late Applications: Applications received after the deadline will not be considered, so please ensure they are submitted on time.
In Solidarity,
Troy Coburn
Regional Education & Organization Officer