ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. (May 28, 2014) -- Five U.S. Army organizations and APG's federal employee union signed a charter May 27 to establish a labor-management partnership forum.
The National Federation of Federal Employees Local 178 joined management representatives from the Army Contracting Command-APG; Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense; Army Research, Development and Engineering Command; CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity; and Edgewood Chemical Biological Center for the signing ceremony.
NFFE National President William Dougan lauded the efforts of the Local 178 and Army management to create the forum.
"There is a renewed anticipation of labor and management working collaboratively across the federal government to make government more effective in delivering the services the American public expects," Dougan said. "Labor-management forums provide a vehicle for labor and management to work together to resolve workplace issues early on.
"They also serve to promote engagement of the workforce by giving employees a voice in workplace matters and allow management to tap into the creativity and innovation that employees have to offer. I applaud your joint commitment to work together."
The forum's purpose is to maintain dialogue and open communication and to resolve issues at the lowest level, according to Todd Morris, RDECOM's human resources director. It does not replace statutory requirements.
RDECOM Director Dale A. Ormond recognized the difficulties encountered by Army civilians the past few years and said the forum will provide an avenue for addressing employees' concerns.
"It has been a very challenging year for our federal employees with furloughs, budget reductions and many other challenges. We are looking forward to this agreement to help us structure the conversation and enable us to provide the teaming that our employees need and deserve," Ormond said.
The following officials signed the charter: Lisa G. Foust, president of NFFE Local 178; CARA Director Christopher K. Chesney; Suzanne Milchling, representing ECBC Director Joseph Wienand; Col. Kevin Pitzer, representing MRICD Commander Col. Bruce A. Schoneboom; Ormond; and ACC-APG Director Bryon J. Young.
Related Links:
Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense
U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command
CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity
Edgewood Chemical Biological Center
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