Telus Contract Strike-Security Supervisor
Academy Protection Service
Telus Mobility, Calgary, Alberta
On my first day, I drove toward the parking lot entryway and a number of picketers unexpectedly stepped in front, with one of them yelling, 'What's the matter, first day on the job?' Little did he know it was. :) For the next few weeks there were two hostile camps, each with its own territory. Picketers manned the entryway. Security personnel stood 20 to 40 feet away. Inside-workers exiting the parking lot approached the exit-ramp erratically, not sure of what to do. Sometimes they'd make a run for it to try to avoid being picketed. Sometimes picketers stepped in front of vehicles unexpectedly. It was just a question of time before there would be an accident. I knew what needed to be done. But I also knew that if I asked for permission first, the answer would be no. So one evening when Telus management was observing and the VP of Academy Protection Service was present, I guided a vehicle toward the picket line, gave the striking employees the opportunity to picket, and when they were done, directed the vehicle out of the parking lot. Everything changed from there on in. An equally important turning point occurred when a vehicle failed to follow my direction and lurched toward the line. I keyed up and started to throw my body in front of it. Everyone was shocked. When they witnessed that with their own eyes, they knew I was on their side too. Soon after that, one of the striking employees said to me: 'I want you to know that you’ve gained the respect of everyone here.' Promoted to site supervisor with two pay increases. Responsible for the daily supervision of 15 security personnel. Coordinated with, and provided guidance to, Telus management on all aspects of day-to-day strike activities. Built the day-to-day rapport necessary to foster a safe environment. Awarded an extended contract during the one-week reacclimation phase. Awarded and managed contract security for the 2005 Calgary Telus Christmas party.