Since the first of this year there have been a number of new hires into represented positions both at NSTAR and National Grid. Ironically, most of the positions filled at both companies have been the Call Center Rep positions. Both Bill Carr companies continue to face a constant turnover in these positions as other job postings and opportunities arise. NSTAR has also recently hired a number of Engineers, Customer Service Engineers and Drafting Technicians. We have had some difficulty filling these positions in the past, internally as well as externally; this year has proved to be a little different. Most of NSTAR’s new members we’ve been lucky enough to welcome at their orientation process. Again, as we did then and for those we have yet to meet, we strongly encourage you to come to the Membership meeting in September, get yourself sworn in and get yourself involved in your Local. There are plenty of opportunities and committees for every member of this Local to help shape the direction and future of this Local.

At the hall we continue to finalize combined rosters of job classifications from the several areas covering NSTAR territories.

This does not break the Red Sox win streak [yet] but again as in many previous articles, I must recognize and congratulate “the Strategic Planning Committee” for what proved to be a very successful and informative Stewards Training Session.

When eighty plus members of this Local carve a portion of their own time to educate themselves on how to protect their current Collective Bargaining Agreement, prepare for upcoming contract strategies and above all look internally at the structure to best represent every member of this Local well, it’s like Manny following Ortiz. Thanks to all who participated, like those other two it is a long season!

As we speak, vacations and family outings are at their peak. Please enjoy the weather, family and friends. Be Safe!