Ralph Chatoor, EVP Society Of United Professionals

Join me in shaping our union’s future together. Your voice matters in this election.

As knowledge workers, the rise of AI presents a critical challenge: ensuring it empowers us, not replaces us or erodes our autonomy. We must swiftly secure legal protections, strong legislation, and robust collective bargaining to protect our jobs and independence. Through increased employee engagement and collaboration, I’m confident we can tackle this challenge and build a stronger future together.

Areas Of Focus

Dedicated to representing members and fostering a collaborative environment for positive change and growth.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence

We must evaluate AI’s influence on our workforce, identifying both the opportunities it brings and the challenges it may pose. Our priority should be to harness AI to enhance operations while protecting job security, ensuring our union remains resilient in a shifting landscape.

Coordinated Bargaining

We can use arbitration wins from various Society Locals to strengthen our collective agreements and enhance benefits across the board.

Member Engagement

I will create opportunities for members across different locals to connect, stay informed about activities in other units, and foster a sense of unity that strengthens our bonds as a union.

Consolidation

Sharing best practices across locals allows us to build synergies that reinforce our collective strength.

Endorsements

“Ralph is a passionate advocate for Society members. He finds the time to listen to their issues and works hard to resolve them by offering sound advice and support. He has been involved in collective bargaining when difficult issues were being negotiated. He has experience handling grievances and working through arbitrations for his members. He is very knowledgeable on the ED&I work the local is involved in and very knowledgeable in the human rights and harassment area. Ralph has been the lead person in putting together CNSC submissions for the OPG Local and his knowledge of regulatory bodies has been a great asset. He has done good work to engage his members within the Local and I am positive he can do that same good work to engage all Society members!”

Joe Fierro

OPG LVP

Key Accomplishment’s

Dedicated to representing members and fostering a collaborative environment for positive change and growth.

Licensing of Nuclear Stations and Darlington New Nuclear Project

Collaborating with Bruce Power Local, OPG Local, our President, Society members, and Central staff, I used my expertise in engineering, law, and advocacy to help secure licenses from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. These licenses ensured environmentally responsible and safe nuclear operations, including the Darlington New Nuclear Project, and preserved well-paying jobs. Most recently, we secured an extension of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station’s operating license through December 2026, ensuring continued job security.

Shaping the workplace

Serving on various committees and boards governed by federal and provincial employment equity laws, I played a pivotal role as a key advocate for enhancing hiring practices, addressing accommodation requests, improving training programs, promoting work-life balance, and actively contributing to the development and implementation of the employer’s long-term work plans and equity initiatives.

Leadership development

As Unit Director, I focused on developing our Society Delegates, improving their skills and knowledge in labor relations. Their growth has strengthened member representation in areas like job challenges, disciplinary issues, benefits, diversity and inclusion, harassment complaints, job non-selection, and fund recovery through Purchase Service Agreements.

Skill Set

As a candidate for Executive Vice President, I bring a unique blend of experience across several industries, including health, mining, pulp and paper, consulting, legal, and energy. My education spans business, engineering, and law, providing me with a broad foundation to address diverse challenges. I am a progressive thinker, always focused on innovation to solve workplace issues. Engaging and empowering our membership has been a passion of mine, inspiring members to have an active voice in their union. With a strong commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I), I am culturally sensitive and have worked to promote these values in the workplace. I have a genuine desire to bring out the best in our membership by empowering them to succeed. As we face unprecedented changes due to the rise of Artificial Intelligence, innovative thinking will be critical for our future, and I am ready to lead us through this new era.

Closing Thoughts

Driven by a philosophy of continuous improvement, my diverse education, cross-industry experience, and cultural background prepare me for the role of Executive Vice President.

I am committed to setting an example of trust, integrity, hard work, and kindness, fostering a culture of respect that strengthens the Society and drives our success!

Gallery

Showcasing commitment to serve and represent our community effectively.