James Pointer is an interpretive supervisor at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park and has been with the State of Minnesota for 12 years. This is James first experience with unions, both belonging to one and supervising employees that belong to a union.
James sees the primary purpose of MMA is to support our members. This can be done in many different ways; bargaining, representing them during investigations, providing professional development and being there to answer their questions.
After attending one of the DNR Local meetings, James said they were looking for a new Treasurer. Having served as a Treasurer for other organizations, he thought he could use those skills to help the Local. Shortly after that there was a need for someone to represent DNR on the negotiating team, so he joined the Board and the negotiating team. James felt that if he was going to be part of the union, he should play an active role in its operation. He has been on the Board since 2008 and is currently serving on the Executive Committee as Vice President.
When asked how best MMA can support our members, James says; ‘We need to be available and continue to listen to our member’s needs. The Staff has been working hard to get out and show our members that we do exist and that we are there to help as needed (something that has been lacking in recent years). During the outreach meetings, members said they wanted more professional development opportunities. The Staff then worked to get a 2-day professional conference approved by MMB and the response was awesome. If we can keep doing our core duties such as negotiations, but also continue to add more value for our members, then I would consider that a success.’
‘Remember that the union is there for you. Become a full member and take part in the activities, conferences, outreach meetings, etc. Let the Staff know what you need or would like to see. Fill out the surveys, such as the negotiation survey, as that is what we use to assist in our plans. Realize that some items may take time, but slow and steady wins the race.’
When James is not at work, he enjoys being in the outdoors (camping, canoeing and hiking). His family recently purchased a new home, so he can be found working on projects around the house (which can be fun and stressful at the same time)!
