PLATFORM
Wayne Blanchard's vision for UAW Region 2B is built on the belief that a strong union is driven by engaged members, effective leadership, and a commitment to fighting for working families. Throughout his career in leadership, Wayne has focused on delivering results, expanding opportunities for members, and preparing our union for the challenges and opportunities of the future. His platform reflects the values that have guided his leadership—strengthening our contracts, educating and empowering our membership, improving communication, supporting retirees, advancing political action, embracing emerging technologies, and growing our union through organizing. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more united UAW Region 2B.
LIST OF ISSUES
Bargaining
The labor movement is experiencing a historic resurgence, and Wayne believes this is the moment to build on that momentum. With strong support from UAW members and their communities, we have an opportunity to secure stronger contracts, expand workplace protections, and hold corporations accountable when they prioritize profits over the people who drive their success.
Communication
Wayne believes transparency, accessibility, and honest dialogue are essential to strong leadership. During his tenure as Director, he expanded communication efforts by launching the regular virtual Presidents’ and Chairpersons’ meetings, the Region 2B Update newsletter, and improvements to the Region’s website and social media platforms. These efforts increased access to information, strengthened connections with local unions, and ensured members had more opportunities to stay informed and engaged.
Education
A strong union begins with an informed and engaged membership. As Director of Region 2B, Wayne ensured access to union education during the coronavirus pandemic by launching innovative programs such as the UAW Region 2B Online Academy and virtual conferences. Later, he championed the Local Union Effective Educator Program and the Region 2B Union Involvement Conference. These initiatives reached members who had never participated in UAW education programs before, creating new opportunities for involvement and helping build a stronger, more knowledgeable, and more united membership.
Retirees
Retired members are the foundation of the UAW’s strength. Their sacrifices built our union, and their experience, knowledge, and commitment continue to guide our future. Wayne understands the importance of keeping retirees connected and ensuring their voices remain respected and valued. By honoring their legacy and embracing their continued involvement, we strengthen the union for generations to come.
Future Technologies
Electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies are transforming the workplace and the future of UAW jobs. Wayne believes our members must have a voice in that transformation, not simply react to change after decisions are made.
Through strategic bargaining, political involvement, and proactive engagement with industry leaders, Wayne is committed to ensuring new technologies create opportunities, protect good union jobs, and keep UAW members at the center of the future of work
Organizing
Organizing is the lifeblood of the labor movement. Growing our union means increasing worker power, strengthening our bargaining position, and bringing the protections of a union contract to more workers.
As Region 2B Director, Wayne helped bring new members into the UAW, including playing a key role in organizing the UAW's first battery plant in Lordstown, Ohio. These victories strengthened our union and demonstrated what workers can achieve when they stand together.
Wayne is committed to expanding those efforts through member- and local-driven organizing supported by the Region. By continuing organizing training and empowering members across Indiana and Ohio, we can grow the UAW and build lasting power for working families.
Political Activism
Wayne knows that decisions made in government directly impact workers’ rights, union jobs, and our ability to negotiate strong contracts. Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in the UAW-CAP program and AFL-CIO constituency groups, including CBTU, APRI, LCLAA, and FLOC, building relationships and advocating for policies that support working families.
Under Wayne’s leadership, Region 2B earned a seat at the table on the Indiana Electric Vehicle Product Commission, giving UAW members a voice in discussions shaping the future of EV manufacturing. His commitment remains focused on protecting current jobs, creating future opportunities, and ensuring workers help shape the industries they power.