Member minute

Nick Richards, left, of UAW Local 145 with his girlfriend, Melissa Heidenreich and Region 4 Director Ron McInroy.

Nick Richards is UAW Local 145 recording secretary and an inspector at Caterpillar Inc., a leading manufacturer of heavy equipment whose production portfolio spans a broad range of agriculture and construction implements. At the company’s Aurora, Ill., facility, he pressure tests heater hoses and inspects wiring harnesses before they are sent to assembly.

When did you start working at Caterpillar?

"I was 18, and I couldn’t have been happier. But I was indifferent to the union when I started"

What compelled you to become more active?

"Former Local 145 President Tim Smith opened my eyes. I began to see that the change didn’t happen with one or two people. It was everyone. So today I can’t just sit and wait for things to happen. I got involved, and I’ve been thrilled to do it ever since"

Your Cat contract is up in March. What are your thoughts on the UAW’s upcoming negotiations with the company?

"Caterpillar says they intend to negotiate in good faith for globally competitive wages. Honestly, we want the same thing – good-paying wages that allow us to continue our quality of life for our families. I think we can do it"

What is your strategy to improve worker solidarity?

"Be aggressive. Our union’s Worker-to-Worker plan encourages members to attend monthly meetings and be aware of the relevant issues. Members sometimes say, ‘They’d better fix it,’ and I ask, who is they? You must mean ‘we.’ We can make things happen. Solidarity is at the core …”

How do you find balance in your life?

"My girlfriend, Melissa, and I are homebodies, but I like to go to the late-model dirt track races or an occasional rodeo. In fact, the Local 145 Community Services Committee recently organized a 50/50 raffle at the South Speedway Dirt Track and raised more than $300 for the March of Dimes"

Herman Jenkins