The LEARN Network

One of the most exciting new aspects of the Training and Development Department is the LEARN (Labor Education and Resources Now) network. Sally Payne, the Associate Director of the Training and Development Department and Western Region Training Coordinator, has developed the LEARN network to enhance the services provided by the department. Payne, who will oversee this national program, believes the new structure will help locals and Joint Councils participate more fully in the training process and showcase “best practices” among Teamster affiliates.

Each Joint Council has been asked to select an individual to take on the role of Joint Council Training Coordinator. The Joint Council training coordinators will assist the regional Training and Development staff by compiling resources in the area that can be used in programming, helping to implement training programs on relevant topics and assisting with event logistics.

The Joint Council coordinators have asked each local within their joint councils to select a local union training coordinator. The Joint Council and local union coordinators will work together to help expand the quality and number of programs available to all members. The department will provide a “train the trainer” program in order to have a large number of trainers at all levels available to assist in training programs with the ultimate goal of growing the union and returning power to the labor movement.

“Training members is an important task for the union and must be done well,” Payne said. “Having a structure in place that includes regional, Joint Council and local union coordinators will help ensure that resource materials are current, and topics are timely and meet the needs of our members. It also gives Teamsters a great deal of experience a chance to be involved in the training process.”