It’s been another exciting week at ZSE. I spent a lot of time on the floor to ensure I got my time for the month and I will admit that I was a bit rusty. Luckily after October my travel will slow to almost nothing and I will find much more time to be in the areas and maintain my proficiency.
I’m sure by now the rumors are swirling about management’s proposal to solicit for an Article 46 move from the C and D areas to the B area. After some robust conversation amongst the Eboard, we have determined that it is not in the facilities best interest to support this move. Although we all feel for the B area and the massive amount of overtime they’ve had to endure, stripping CPCs from any of the other areas will only harm them and potentially leave them in a similar situation. I gave Don NATCA’s official stance today and we will see where management takes it. I want to make it clear that management can carry through with this solicitation and if there are no volunteers, they can forcibly move the lowest senior CPC in the areas without any buy-in from NATCA. We are taking a strong stance against this, but if we cannot persuade them, we will be left with their decision with little to no recourse. We are hopeful that our arguments against this do not fall on deaf ears. More to come when we get Don’s response.
On a more positive note, registration for NATCA’s Biennial Convention in Houston opened today. For those that have never been, the convention is a fantastic way to see the inner workings of our great Union and see where the leadership and our membership are taking us. I highly recommend that anyone with the slightest interest in becoming more involved with NATCA try to attend. Just a reminder that this is something that must be done on your own time, so plan your leave accordingly. Here is the registration link:
https://www.eiseverywhere.com/ereg/index.php?eventid=480719&
Speaking of leave, we should be on pace to begin bidding by October 14th. The schedules are getting their final touches and we should be sending the MOUs up to the district for agency head review next week. If all goes as planned the briefings will take place the following week and we will be on our way. Due to the fact that we are changing to online bidding, I ask for everyones patience as we all adjust to this new way of doing business. Also, if you have leave coming up after the 14th and you will be unable to use bidATC, please get with your area rep or another member of the Eboard to leave your proxy bid.
I hope everyone has a fantastic week and please contact me with any issues, questions or concerns.
In solidarity,
Derek Adams