Union work and workplace learning are linked for Terry, an outspoken advocate for both. The computer course "helped me tremendously with union work" and he represents CUPE Local 569 on the Workplace Self Improvement Program. Terry has served the union membership for 20 years, first as a shop steward and then going on to "work every position on the executive except president." Since 2006, he has been the chief shop steward, "policing the collective agreement with the City." Twelve hours a week, he's in the union office, reading through documents, discussing union policy, and writing up reports such as grievances and appeals filled with all the details required to protect workers. Currently, he also sits on committees for pension, grievances, and the Employee and Family Assistance Program.
While Terry has never been shy about speaking his mind, his learning over the last 10 years has taken him into new territory. "I never thought of going near a computer. I was afraid." Now, Terry says, "My self-confidence is high and my self esteem is huge." He is also proud of what the committee has been able to offer and of his co-workers who put in the time and effort. "We put 160 people through the computer course; it was great ... just when computers were coming into trucks and equipment." The committee usually offers its programs when the weather is good, to avoid losing shift workers. "In the middle of the summer, we were studying from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m. and absentees were about nil." He also credits the City of St. John'S for "being good about training" and City Council for funding the program directly for the last several years.
As a member of the CAMA Learners' Council, Terry's history and involvement in the workplace learning program locally and nationally gives him a distinct perspective. He honours the hard work that went into organizing the pilot projects and supporting the growth of successful programs. "I remember when we first met in Moncton for the pilots, we were amazed at what the Moncton program was doing." He looks back on how the whole CAMA project has expanded: "It's huge-more than 260 programs! I'm proud to be part of it." The Learners' Council brings together representatives from across the country to foster a sense of working together. 'When you're isolated, you don't have the same feeling." Terry says the first meeting of the group in Ottawa "was an emotional time for me-four other people doing the exact same thing that I was doing. It's a proud moment for all of us to be on the Learners' Council."
Terry wants to get the message out to other workers to join a workplace learning program. "You can knock down any roadblock. Whatever age, you can do it. It's never too late to start." Once you've started, never stop. "Stay involved with literacy. Read a pamphlet, read a book, read signs. Buy something new and read the book that comes with it."
In another year Terry can retire but his interest and involvement in City affairs will remain strong. In fact, Terry says he's thinking seriously about running for councillor at-large in the City. "I'm going to put my name forward in the next couple of years for electoral politics. If I get elected, I can retire and move down to City Hall."
"Then, I'll put all my faith in the City staff!" he jokes.