Open Enrollment Classes on Campus
The Labor Center’s on-campus open-enrollment classes draw union members from across the region to the UI campus in Iowa City for intensive sessions focused on the workplace issues of today. Classes are taught by Labor Center staff, University of Iowa faculty and other invited guest instructors. Lodging options are available on or near campus for each course (see individual program flyers for details). Each year the Labor Center's on-campus offerings include a five-day Labor Short Course aimed at emerging leaders, which covers a wide variety of issues ranging from communication and leadership skills to legal tools, labor history, and key public policy issues.
2015-16 On-Campus Course Schedule
Advanced Steward School
September 10-11, 2015, Iowa Memorial Union, University of Iowa, Iowa City
Download flyer (pdf)
For union officers, staff, and experienced stewards. This two-day course will include updates on hot topics, analysis of arbitration case studies, and a focus on sharpening communication, advocacy and presentation skills.
Iowa Public Sector Collective Bargaining
October 19-20, 2015, BioVentures Center, UI Research Park, Coralville
Download flyer (pdf)
A two-day collective bargaining school for union leaders, staff and members involved in collective bargaining under Chapter 20 (state and local government and school district workers). The class will include a legal update as well as practical sessions on research, costing, drafting and presenting proposals, and impasse arbitration.
Financial Officers' School
December 3-4, 2015, Iowa Memorial Union, University of Iowa, Iowa City
Download flyer (pdf)
Designed for union officers responsible for private and public financial recordkeeping. Includes sessions on IRS reporting requirements, LM and PERB forms, audits, changes in Department of Labor regulations, accounting skills and budgets.
Collective Bargaining (Private Sector)
February 2-4, 2016, Iowa Memorial Union, University of Iowa, Iowa City
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A hands-on approach intended to get union staff, officers and bargaining team members ready for bargaining. Includes sessions on bargaining law, preparation and research, member mobilizing, community support, media and communication, persuasive techniques, impasse resolution, and a practice bargaining session.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
February 18-19, 2016, Iowa Memorial Union, University of Iowa, Iowa City
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In-depth review of FMLA law and revised 2013 Department of Labor regulations, plus sessions on helping members with FMLA questions, handling FMLA grievances, bargaining improved contract language, and addressing common problems with medical certificaiton.
Workers' Compensation
March 10-11, 2016, Iowa Memorial Union, University of Iowa, Iowa City
Download flyer (pdf)
Overview of Iowa workers' compensation law and how it relates to other laws and benefits, with special attention to the union's role in assisting injured workers. Guest speakers include experienced work comp attorneys and UI medical professionals.
65th Annual Labor Short Course
April 25-29, 2016, Iowa Memorial Union, University of Iowa, Iowa City
Download flyer (pdf)
The Labor Center's longest-running annual course. A week-long class designed to introduce newer union activists to many of the issues facing organized labor, plus sessions to improve practical skills needed by stewards and other union leaders. A great opportunity to build the leadership necessary to strengthen your union for the future.