Unions play a growing role in the university's workforce. This foundational course gives supervisors and HR professionals a clear introduction to how labor relations work at U-M. In this course, we will provide:

• A high-level overview of unions and labor relations at the university
• An overview of the Regents' Neutrality Resolution and how unions gain recognition
• An introduction to key labor relations terms and legal frameworks (e.g., NLRA/NLRB, PERA/MERC)

Learning Objectives

You will learn to:

• Identify the "dos and don'ts" of employer neutrality during union organizing activity
• Determine the stages of the union recognition and collective bargaining process, from organizing through a ratified agreement
• Use common labor relations terminology (e.g., duty to bargain, CBA, card check) with confidence

You will benefit by:

• Knowing when and how to connect with your Staff HR Representative
• Building a baseline understanding of the unionized environment at U-M
• Gaining familiarity with how collective bargaining agreements come to be at U-M
• Increasing confidence navigating common terminology and knowing where to turn for support

Audience: 

Any U-M manager or supervisor who currently manages or anticipates managing bargained-for staff and would like to better understand related responsibilities 

Program Notes:

This is an introductory overview of labor relations concepts and process, not a deep dive into day-to-day contract administration or people-leadership skills. Additional learning opportunities on this topic are forthcoming.