Pre-Convention Classes
We hope your travel plans will allow for arrival into Philadelphia in time to take advantage of our exciting lineup of pre-convention classes on Tuesday, April 17, at the Convention Center. Classes begin at noon. No advance registration is needed. Check out some of our class line up. Stay tuned for more information soon!
Mock Convention
Time: (45 min duration)
12:00pm
1:00pm
2:00pm
3:00pm
Description: Many may be nervous to go to the microphone at the convention. Learn the techniques to better prepare yourself, with special guest {modal url=”/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2252″ width=”50%” height=”60%”}President Emeritus John Carr{/modal}
Why you should take this class: Members will watch and may volunteer to participate in a mock convention. This immersive experience will help participants understand the process of conducting business at Convention, including how to address the Chair of the Convention and make motions to conduct business on the convention floor. You will learn about the history of past conventions, how to make changes to proposals, and following the parliamentary procedure of using Robert’s Rules.
Who is teaching the class: Convention Committee
NATCA 101
Time: 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Description: NATCA 101 provides members with basic education of who NATCA is, where NATCA comes from, what our union offers, and why. The class is intended to introduce our newer members to the organization and structure of NATCA, as well as refresh and encourage those looking to get more involved.
Why you should take this class: Even for veteran NATCA members, NATCA 101 is a great look at labor history, including an overview of Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) and NATCA history. This class also educates members about the many national and local resources available to them. Don’t miss this chance for a refresher on all things NATCA, whether it’s your first Convention or you’re honing your NATCAvist fluency in Philadelphia.
Who is teaching the class: Reloaded Committee
How to Have a Difficult Conversation
Time: 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Description: Not every problem has a perfect solution, but communication is the key to working through difficult conversations and finding the right path forward. Communicating can be hard, even more so when there is a conflict or disagreement, a personal issue, or a problem to address. This class is an opportunity for NATCA members to learn constructive ways to have those tough conversations.
Why you should take this class: As a NATCA leader, whether attending convention as a representative for your local or a passionate NATCAvist, you face situations frequently where you have to deliver bad news, share feedback people don’t want to hear, or correct erroneous behavior or practices. This class will help you learn to carry out these tough discussions while maintaining collaborative relationships in solidarity for the good of your brothers and sisters.
Who is teaching the class: Reloaded Committee
Importance of Pre-Construction Meetings
Time: 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Description: Construction and maintenance activities can have occupational safety and health, and environmental related impacts on Air Traffic and Airway Facilities operations. As Aviation Safety Professionals, your attendance and attention to these important collaborative events is vital.
Why you should take this class: While “meetings” might not sound like the most exciting way to spend your time, NATCA members know that as stewards of the National Airspace System, any opportunity to learn how changes to a work environment or situation could impact the health and safety of members and/or the flying public is one you should seize. This class will share the tools needed to motivate members to attend, teach what to listen for, and show you where to get the resources that are at your disposal during such a critical time.
Who is teaching the class: OSHA
How to Keep your Local out of Jail
Time: 1:00pm – 3:30pm
Description: Learn the correct ways to keep track of your local’s financial records and various other documents, and improve your knowledge of NATCA, the Department of Labor, and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rules. Understand the importance of strict record keeping, consistent financial records for your local, and how to provide written documentation to meet financial guidelines.
Why you should take this class: If you have any role dispersing or keeping the finances for your local, you can’t afford to make mistakes – it really could land you or someone else in jail. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a better understanding of what you need to keep on record to keep your union local running smoothly and legally.
Who is teaching the class: Finance Committee
Say Again: Effective Communication Techniques
Time: 2:30pm – 4:30pm
Description: Whether it’s a face-to-face conversation, a text, or a written e-mail exchange, a meaningful message entails establishing a connection that leaves a powerful impression. Discover the different methods of communication and the best ways to use them.
Why you should take this class: NATCA’s recent legacy has been our commitment to collaboration – working with others to find mutually beneficial solutions to the hardest problems facing the National Airspace System. Working well with others is impossible without effective communication. Join your NATCA brothers and sisters in this continuing push by learning to communicate effectively, no matter the circumstance.
Who is teaching the class: Reloaded Committee
Know your OSHA and OWCP Rights
Time: 2:30pm- 4:30pm
Description: Learn the requirements and rights that apply to you as related to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP).
Why you should take this class: As a NATCA representative, part of your inherent role is working to protect yourself and your brothers and sisters from any conditions that may put them in an unhealthy or unsafe working environment. Use this opportunity at the 2018 Convention to become fluent on the basics of OSHA and OWCP requirements and how the two regulations work hand in hand to keep members safe and the NAS safe and effective.
Who is teaching the class: OSHA/OWCP
NCF101
Time: 2:30pm – 4:30pm
Description: This class is brief overview of the history of the NATCA Charitable Foundation (NCF) and the organization’s current structure. You’ll learn about the symbiotic relationship between the charitable foundation, the Union itself, and its members.
Why you should take this class: NCF exists for the benefit of the communities in which NATCA members live. Make a difference in the lives of the people and causes dearest to you by learning of how to organize and participate in the wide range of charitable programs NCF sponsors by getting involved from individual, local and Regional/National participation levels.
Who is teaching the class: NCF
Building a Stronger Local
Time: 2:30pm – 4:40pm
Description: This is an interactive class designed to enhance the strength of your local by emphasizing the importance of teamwork, education, and communication. Learn how everyone – from FacRep to member – plays an essential role within the local.
Why you should take this class: Building a stronger local all starts with your local leadership and those members who step up to fill other important roles from legislative activist to safety rep and much more. Increasingly, each individual member plays a role that has a direct and profound impact on the strength of the entire local.
Who is teaching the class: Reloaded Committee
