AFGE is proud to welcome a new group of federal workers to our union family. Federal employees at the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Engineering Laboratory voted June 8 to join AFGE Local 3403.
The NIST Engineering Laboratory brings together a diverse group of scientists, engineers, technicians, and administrators who dedicate their time and energy on research that advances measurement science, standards, and technology for engineered systems, such as advanced manufacturing, robotic automation, cyber-physical systems, building systems, and disaster resilience.
The work done by the Engineering Laboratory establishes the critical technical basis for codes and standards that enhance economic security and improve overall quality of life.
AFGE Local 3403 President Jesus Soriano said organizing the new unit is part of a larger effort to support the work of NIST employees in the face of the Trump administration’s attacks on their jobs and work.
“Winning this election is a giant step toward protecting the conditions and resources that enable NIST employees to do their best work advancing the standards and technology that help drive U.S. innovation. They are dedicated civil servants, and forming this union is ultimately about fulfilling their mission and oath to the American people by making sure that this agency is properly funded, merit-driven, and free from interference,” Soriano said.
Soriano said morale amongst the staff has improved as a result of the organizing win.
“Now staff feel more connected than ever and also feel the full support of AFGE and all AFGE has done to protect federal workers and their work for the public,” he said.
A total of 191 employees from the Engineering Laboratory are represented by the new unit. They join more than 1,700 other employees represented by Local 3403 across various agencies, including the National Science Foundation, Institute of Museum and Library Services, National Endowment for the Arts, National Endowment for the Humanities, the Economic Research Service, the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the U.S. Forest Service, and the U.S. Geological Survey.
“This election victory is a powerful reminder that when workers stand together, they can build real strength in the workplace,” AFGE District 14 National Vice President Ottis Johnson Jr. said.
Opposition is mounting in response to proposed legislation that would strip veterans of their earned benefits.
Read More
Nearly 16 months since the Trump administration dismantled the U.S. Agency for International Development and terminated thousands of dedicated federal workers, the ramifications are still being felt personally and professionally.
Read More
AFGE dedicates the 7th floor conference room at AFGE national headquarters in honor of National Veterans Affairs Council President Emerita Alma L. Lee.
Read More
