APC stewards play a vital role in ensuring that Unit 4 employees receive fair treatment, workplace protections, and advocacy when needed. One of the key ways they do this is by meeting with Human Resources (HR) to address employee concerns and ensure CSU policies align with APC’s contract.
While these meetings serve a common purpose, the structure and frequency may vary across campuses. If you have concerns, reaching out to your local steward is the best way to understand how the process works at your campus.
APC stewards may meet with HR regularly to discuss workplace matters that affect Unit 4 employees.
This article provides an inside look at how stewards and HR collaborate, what topics are discussed, and how Unit 4 employees can submit their concerns through the appropriate channels.
Lydia Keema, Chief Steward, shares how the process works at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
Who Meets and Where?
APC stewards meet with the HR Director, who oversees Unit 4 employee relations, along with two HR generalists who assist in addressing employee concerns. These meetings provide a dedicated space to discuss workplace matters and ensure that CSU policies align with APC’s contract.
To accommodate busy schedules and allow for full participation, these meetings are held virtually via Zoom, making it easier for all parties to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborate effectively.
How Often Do Stewards and HR Meet?
A standing monthly meeting is scheduled for the fourth week of each month, ensuring that stewards and HR maintain an open line of communication. However, meetings may not always take place if there are no pressing concerns that require discussion.
In cases where urgent issues arise, additional meetings can be scheduled as needed. This flexibility ensures that time-sensitive matters affecting Unit 4 employees are addressed promptly.
What Is Discussed in These Meetings?
The agenda for these meetings is largely driven by concerns submitted by Unit 4 employees, ensuring that the most pressing issues affecting members are prioritized. Discussions often include:
- Status updates on in-range progressions (IRPs) and reclassification requests. Stewards follow up on pending IRP applications and ensure that employees receive appropriate updates regarding their status.
- Workplace concerns that require HR input. Issues such as departmental changes, workload distribution, and policy clarifications are addressed to ensure fair treatment.
- Contract enforcement issues. Stewards work to ensure that managers comply with CSU policies and APC agreements, preventing contract violations.
- HR updates for stewards. HR may share important information that stewards need to be aware of, helping to foster transparency and better communication between employees and administration.
These meetings serve as an essential tool for ensuring fair treatment, addressing workplace challenges, and maintaining open communication between employees, stewards, and HR.
How Do Unit 4 Employees Submit Questions or Concerns?
Employees have multiple ways to confidentially submit their workplace concerns:
- Microsoft Forms, which allows anonymous submissions.
- Direct email to APC stewards for private discussions.
- In-person or virtual conversations with a steward.
Once a concern is submitted, stewards review it to determine the best course of action, which may include:
- Addressing the issue directly as a union matter.
- Referring the question to HR for clarification or resolution.
- Escalating the concern to Labor Relations (LR) if further advocacy is needed.
This process ensures that concerns are directed to the appropriate channels while keeping employees’ confidentiality and best interests in mind.
Can Submissions Be Anonymous?
Yes, employees can submit concerns anonymously through Microsoft Forms. Only APC stewards have access to these submissions—other Unit 4 employees do not see them. No identifying information is shared with HR unless explicitly requested by the employee.
If HR requires additional details to resolve an issue, the steward will consult with the employee first before sharing any information. This process ensures confidentiality and protection for employees who need to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
Are All Questions and Concerns Resolved?
Not every issue has an immediate resolution, but stewards work diligently to get answers and ensure follow-ups when necessary.
Common resolutions include:
- HR providing status updates on outstanding IRPs or reclassification requests.
- Addressing pay discrepancies, such as overpayments or underpayments.
- Enforcing contract provisions to prevent job misclassification or unfair work expectations.
In cases where HR cannot provide a direct answer due to privacy or policy restrictions, stewards still ensure that employees receive the best possible guidance on how to proceed. Their role is to advocate for Unit 4 employees and help navigate workplace challenges while maintaining open communication with HR.
Final Thoughts for Members
The ongoing collaboration between APC stewards and HR is essential for ensuring fair and transparent workplace policies. Stewards serve as frontline advocates for Unit 4 employees, working to address concerns, enforce contract terms, and ensure that CSU policies are applied consistently.
Employees are encouraged to reach out to their local stewards with any workplace concerns. Whether seeking clarification on policies, raising an issue with HR, or simply staying informed, APC is here to support you.
You can locate your campus steward here. Bookmark this page and save your steward’s contact information in your phone for easy access.