‘Get involved to make a difference’

Twelve years ago, a 29-year-old Doug Havens contemplated running for steward at UAW Local 2069 in Dublin, Va.

He had nearly three years’ seniority. His opponent had about 30 years. “A lot of people tried to tell me that I didn’t have enough seniority or maybe I should wait, but I ran for office because I cared about my union and wanted to be involved,” said Havens, now the local’s president.

“It’s important to get involved in your local as soon as possible,” said Havens, who won that first election. “I tell all my members that. You don’t have to wait until you have years and years of seniority.”

George Welitschinsky, 37, agrees. He joined the UAW about the same time as his buddy, Havens.

Now the local’s plant shop chair, Welitschinsky said once he passed his probation period 12 years ago, he immediately joined the local’s political action committee.

“If you believe in yourself and your union, then be defined as a union member who is willing to get involved to make a difference,” he said.