The
UAW-Ford Employee Involvement (EI) process was negotiated in 1979 to encourage
the active involvement of workers. It is now one of the best known and
most successful efforts of its kind in the country.
EI
is based on the principle that workers have much more to contribute than
just physical labor. Workers have the skills, talents and imaginations
to make strong and lasting contributions toward the success of the Company.
Today, all UAW-represented employees have opportunities to play vital
roles in improving their work environments, the quality of Ford products
and their plants’ effectiveness.
Problem-Solving Groups and Teams
EI was initially built around problem-solving groups. These groups continue
to thrive as a dynamic and vital force in many locations. Today, however,
the process manifests itself through various channels, all of which focus
on:
- Quality Improvement
- New Product Launches
- Maintenance
- Operating Effectiveness
A Local Joint Steering Committee (LJSC) helps develop and oversee the EI process at plant locations. Plants also have UAW and Ford Employee Resource Coordinators. At every plant, UAW-appointed Employee Resource Coordinators monitor the EI process and serve as consultants, resource persons and leaders.
To become more involved, all a worker has to do is visit an LJSC member or the plant’s Employee Resource Coordinator.
Local Level
At the local level, EI process opportunities provide for an open exchange of information to help build relationships and solve work-related issues. A variety of topics are discussed, including:
- Operating Schedules
- Quality and Performance Indicators
- Future Product Plans
- New Business Opportunities
- Competition
- Training Initiatives