Steward Training

The steward learning pathway is made up of three levels of training: Steward Essentials, Steward Intermediate and Steward Advanced. The courses teach labour law and regulations, collective bargaining, grievance handling, conflict resolution, communication skills, and understanding BCNU’s structure and policies.

Stewards are encouraged to complete Building Union Strength prior to starting their role, or as soon as possible after assuming the role. It would be beneficial to complete Crucial Conversations before starting the steward learning pathway.

Once you’ve been an active worksite steward for three to six months, you may apply for Steward Essentials, the foundation of a steward’s union education.

Stewards earn a Steward Essentials Certificate on successful completion of the course.

Steward Intermediate is for stewards ready to build their labour relations practice and handle more complex cases and leadership tasks. It’s recommended to enter Steward Intermediate after completing Steward Essentials and consolidating skills for a minimum of 12 months.

Stewards earn a Steward Intermediate Certificate on successful completion of the course.

Stewards finish their steward learning pathway with the successful completion of Steward Advanced. This course is for stewards with more than two years of experience who have established an effective practice of labour relations and are involved in leadership roles at their worksite.

Stewards earn a Steward Advanced certificate on successful completion of the course and a BCNU Steward Education Program certificate for completing all three levels of the steward learning pathway.