WHEREAS:

Many AFSCME members face the prospect of being trapped in dead-end jobs with little or no possibility for career advancement. Recent adverse economic and employment conditions have added to this problem; and

WHEREAS:

AFSCME members who have proven their worth and given years of service to their employers have acquired extensive knowledge of the work performed but limited opportunities exist for them to obtain positions of greater responsibility and better wages. This lack of opportunity, rather than lack of ability or motivation, prevents the career mobility of such employees; and

WHEREAS:

An effective career development program benefits employees and employers alike by assisting the employees in meeting their career goals — to advance from entry level jobs to positions of increased responsibility and pay. At the same time a career development program allows employers to custom train long-term, experienced employees, in order to fulfill their present and future staffing needs.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals are urged to convince employees to work together to propose, design, and negotiate career development programs that provide equitable opportunities for members to obtain higher level jobs by providing basic education courses, skills training, and on-the-job training. These programs should be conducted at or near the worksite with work release time provided to employees selected as participants. Selection should be based on seniority and experience, and after successful completion of training, promotion must be guaranteed; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That the International will act as a resource to AFSCME councils and locals in their negotiations and design of career development programs.

SUBMITTED BY:

Russ Binicki, Delegate, Local 3183
Luis Arellano, Delegate
Council 97
Phoenix, Arizona