The Member Education Unit is excited to announce the upcoming Membership Development Trainee (MDT) program. The MDT program is authorized by the Executive Board and was approved at Convention 2017. The program will be delivered in the fall of 2017.
If you are a member of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), you are eligible to apply for a training opportunity that will develop your knowledge and skills of the trade union movement in a variety of union-related occupations at OPSEU.
Applications for a limited number of member training positions will be accepted from August 16 to August 29 at 4 p.m. (Toronto time).
Frequently asked questions
What is the MDT program?
The MDT program was created to provide opportunities for OPSEU members from all sectors to experience what working with OPSEU would be like. It’s also meant to develop a pool of qualified and experienced applicants for a variety of staff vacancies that come up from time to time at OPSEU.
Why is OPSEU offering these training opportunities?
As is the case with most organizations, OPSEU may be experiencing a number staff retirements over the next few years. The program will help improve the skills of activists. The program should assist OPSEU in training potential staff members.
Who is eligible to participate?
Any OPSEU member in good standing and who wishes to develop their skills may apply for one of the MDT positions.
What can I expect the training to be about?
All successful applicants will receive on-the-job training in the knowledge and skills required to work in positions at OPSEU, such as a Staff Representative (seven MDT positions) or as an Organizer (two MDT positions).
How is the leave from my regular work arranged?
OPSEU will contact your employer and seek a leave of absence for you, should you be selected.
When does the program start?
All MDTs are expected to start October 2, 2017. The program will continue for 12 weeks until December 22, 2017. During that time, it will not be possible to approve vacations, other than the use of compensating days, for time off from the training program. Therefore, applicants need to ensure that they are available for the entire planned time for the training.
How do I apply for the MDT program?
You can apply by sending a short cover letter and resume by email to [email protected] from August 16h to August 29, quoting “MDT application” in the subject line. Applications will only be accepted until 4 p.m. (Toronto time) on August 29, 2017. In your application, be sure to indicate which position you are applying for (Staff Representative or Organizer).
I’ve never done a resume before. What are you looking for?
There are many kinds of resumes. What we are looking for is information about your skills and experiences that will indicate how you could contribute within OPSEU as a workplace. Below is a sample of a simple resume format which would be acceptable.
OPSEU supports employment equity. Racialized workers, women, Indigenous workers, LGBTQTS workers, young workers, francophone workers, and workers with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For the purpose of statistical data collection, applicants are strongly encouraged to voluntarily self-identify.
Please advise by email, should you require an accommodation to participate in this posting.
The 2017 MDT program will be administered in English.
Approved for distribution by:
Warren (Smokey) Thomas
President of OPSEU
22 Union Rd, Mytown, Ontario, P2B 3C4 456-302-2345 [email protected]
Jordan Doe – Sample Resume
Objective: To obtain a position as an MDT Staff Rep within OPSEU
Union and and work experience:
2008 to current
OPSEU Local 123 Smith College Mytown, ON
Union Steward
- Prepared, investigated and represented members on over 20 grievances
- Member of the Local Executive Committee, presented members concerns as required, never missed a meeting in 9 years
- Communicate general union information to members, always ensuring that information is delivered in a timely manner
- Written numerous articles for the Local 123 newsletter
- Currently working on a Local Social Media campaign to be launched in the fall of 2017
- Attended various Regional Educational courses such as Stewardship, Basic and Advanced Grievance Handling and Duty to Accommodate
2008 to current
Smith College Mytown, ON
Administrative Assistant
- Prepare various correspondence for two managers
- Prioritize schedules and manage time efficiently
- Answer all departmental phone calls and respond to email inquiries
- Created and maintain the electronic filing system for the office
2000 to 2008
ABC Publishing Co. Vancouver, BC
Clerk
- Filed daily orders using manual filing system
- Delivered mail to all departments
- Filled in on reception desk as required
Education:
1997 to 1999
Mountain Community College Kelowna, B.C.
Diploma in Office Administration