Take Training Seriously...

 By the time you read this article the worst of the winter will be behind us and spring will be on the horizon. With the acquisition of Air Tran right around the corner, our union members should be going through training on the 717 and 800 series aircraft. As you are reading through all of the procedures and policies that will be implemented for these aircraft, take the necessary time you need to make sure that you are fully familiar and comfortable with all of the new materials you have or will be receiving. Remember that Article 9.A states: Rate of Pay. The company shall make every reasonable effort to schedule employees to attend training classes during their regular shift; however, any time spent in working, training, badging, or traveling, over and above the regular shift, shall be considered overtime and shall be paid in applicable overtime. Do not feel as though you have to rush through learning this new information, but rather concern yourself with learning it thoroughly and completely, with the same high level of effort that you always put forth. We are currently still in negotiations with the company. The union is still working through the seniority integration process with Air Tran and SWA. Please know that your continued support is extremely important to solidify the confidence for our negotiation committee’s progress. They welcome your solicitation, e-mails, comments and ideas. Remember we are doing this together! As I close this article, I would like to ask that we all take a moment of silence to remember those who are no longer with us. I extend my deepest thanks to each and every one of you for the continued hard work that you do on a daily basis. Continue to work smart and be safe.

Fraternally,

h.bryant@twu555.org