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As we prepare for our upcoming Unifor Local 531 Workplace Representative Elections, we want to ensure all members feel informed, empowered, and engaged in the process. These elections are a vital part of maintaining a strong, democratic union where every member has a voice in shaping our workplace representation.
This FAQ is here to help answer your most common questions about the nomination and election process, what it means to be a Workplace Representative, and how you can get involved.
Let’s build a stronger workplace—together.
Q: What is a Workplace Representative?
A: A Workplace Representative is a union member elected by their peers to represent them on shift in the workplace. Their responsibilities include:
- Advocating for fellow members by being CBA experts
- Committing to learning the CBA and knowing where to find the answers
- Upholding and enforcing the CBA
- Identifying and reporting workplace issues that violate the CBA
- Supporting members during investigatory meetings or discipline
- Attending investigative or outcome meetings with fellow members
- Taking detailed notes, communicating effectively to their Unit Chair
- Attend General Membership Meetings and other union meetings and events.
Q: What doesn't a Workplace Representative do?
A: A workplace representative has a very important role to fulfil, however there are limitations including:
- Workplace Reps do not negotiate the CBA or implement new language. Negotiating the CBA is the responsibility of the Bargaining Committee, which is elected separately.
- They do not file grievances but participate in discussions whether a grievance needs to
- They do not act individually on behalf of the union as a whole.
- Workplace Reps are workplace focused; broader union representation and communication falls to the Executive Board or other elected union leadership.
- Lastly, while the reps provide support and guidance, they do not make formal rulings, file grievances, or speak on behalf of the entire union in local, headquarters, legal or disciplinary matters.
Q: When does the nomination period close?
A: Nominations can be submitted up until Wednesday, April 16 at 0959 local time. Any submissions after that time will not be accepted.
Q: If I am nominated, when do I have to accept my nomination by?
A: If you have been nominated, the Elections Committee will send you an email with all the details. Candidates must accept their nominations by Thursday, April 17 at 0959 local time to be on the ballot. Candidates also have until this time to submit their election statement / bio and photo if they choose which will appear in a communication to the members and on the ballot. If no bio or photo is submitted by the deadline, the ballot will be left blank with only the candidates name.
Q: How do I know who's running?
A: Once all the candidates provide the Elections Committee with their bio and photos, an email will be sent to all ATW members with the candidates listed in random order by the end of the day on Friday, April 18. Candidates can also campaign as soon as they accept their nomination.
Q: How long is the term for a Workplace Representative?
A: All elected union representatives serve a three year term but may serve consecutive terms if re-elected.
Q: How many representatives is Local 531 electing?
A: We are currently electing:
- 2 in YYZ (Replacing 2 members who have stepped down / left the union or company)
- 12 in YYC
- 6 in YVR
In the case of YYC and YVR, all current workplace representative terms have concluded. In YYZ, the current workplace representatives are serving the remainder of their terms.
Q: Who can be nominated?
A: Any Unifor Local 531 member in good standing can be nominated. Members can nominate as many peers as they wish, and may nominate themselves.
Q: How do I nominate someone?
A: Email your nominations to @email before the deadline: Wednesday, April 16 at 0959 local time.
Q: I’ve been nominated—what’s next?
A: You’ll receive an email from @email confirming your nomination. To accept your nomination, simply reply to the email no later than Thursday, April 17 at 0959 local time.
Q: What if I don't respond until after the deadline?
A: If you don’t respond by the deadline, your name will not be included on the ballot and you are not eligible to run for a union workplace representative.
Q: Can I withdraw after accepting my nomination?
A: Yes, you can withdraw anytime up until Sunday, April 20 at 0959 local time by emailing @email
Q: I know I've been nominated but don't have an email from the Elections Committee.
A: Check your spam, junk and promotions inboxes in your personal email address you provided to WestJet. If you still can't find the email, reach out to @email
Q: Do I need to submit anything else if I accept my nomination?
A: Yes! You are encouraged to submit the following:
- A photo of yourself (in JPG format)
- A short bio in either Microsoft Word, Google Docs or email body format that includes:
- Your name or how you're known at work
- You current base and position
- Why you would make a good Workplace Rep
- Relevant experience, union involvement, and how long you’ve been with WestJet
This info will be included in union communications and on the official ballot. Deadline for submission is also Thursday, April 17 at 0959 local time. If you do not submit a photo or bio, your ballot will only contain your name. Please note that the Elections Committee may edit your bio for length, or content but will not be edited for grammar, spelling and overall messaging. If your bio fails to meet professional standards and code of conduct, it will not be included.
Q: Where will voting take place?
A: Voting will take place online using Simply Voting which is a safe, secure, accessible and confidential platform. Each eligible voter will receive a unique voting link to their personal email address. If you do not receive a link by Monday, April 21 at 1000 local time, please reach out to @email
Q: When will voting take place?
A: Simply Voting will be open from Monday, April 21 at 1000 local time to Wednesday, April 23 at 0959 local time providing all members with ample opportunity to vote for their preferred candidate.
Q: How will the names of the nominees be listed on the ballot?
A: Simply Voting, the election platform we use to run our elections, will list the nominees names in random order to ensure fairness.
Q: Can I campaign if I’m nominated?
A: Yes—but there are strict guidelines:
- You may not use company resources (WestJet email, Teams, etc.) for campaigning.
- You may hang one 8.5x11 poster on union bulletin boards with permission from your Unit Chair (you must email them your intentions and a copy of your poster PRIOR to posting it).
- Campaign material must not cover existing union information.
- You may use your personal social media and the union logo for promotional materials.
- Slander, inappropriate comments about the union or company, or poor judgment will not be tolerated. Action may be taken by both the union and the company if violated.
Q: Can I campaign for my nominee?
A: Yes as long as you receive permission from your nominee and follow the guidelines above.
Q: Who do I contact if I have more questions?
A: Please email @email with any questions, concerns, or technical issues related to nominations or the election process.