Long Time Local Leader Fights Hard to Protect Members’ Rights
Since joining the union in 1995, Local R7-43 President Chris Wheeler, an EMS professional with AMR of Akron, OH, has seen his fair share of ups and downs. Through it all, Wheeler has maintained his dedication to his members and continues to work diligently to protect their rights in the workplace.
“Protecting my members’ rights and their employment are the most important aspects of my position as a union president,” said Wheeler. “I take pride in making sure management follows all the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement and that the members of Local 43 are treated fairly and respectfully.”
Wheeler began his career in EMS over 20 years ago, and quickly became active in his local as a shop steward. Moving through the ranks, her became chief shop steward and took over as president following a shift in the local’s executive board.
During his time as president, Wheeler has found that doing what is best for the entire local is not always an easy task.
“One of the toughest parts of being a local president is making sure my members believe in and support this union,” said Wheeler. “Our local recently underwent a complete shift re-bid in order to avoid lay-offs and hour reductions. On one hand you have members who are happy that jobs were saved, and on the other hand you have members who are upset over having to get a new shift and possibly lose a shift they prefer.”
[Note: members receive shifts in a lottery-styled process based on seniority and preference of available shifts]
Despite the ups and downs, Wheeler remains committed to helping his local succeed throughout the future.
“I know this union can become stronger as a whole through increased member participation. I truly believe that this local will continue to achieve success,” said Wheeler. “As a local president, it’s important to remember that we all need support. We all need to give it as well as receive it, and I truly believe that our own humility is what keeps everything real. It’s with this humbled heart that I must say thank you to the members and to the IAEP for the National’s continued support.”