Blue Collar News

Montana AFL-CIO
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From the shop floor to the State Legislature we've got you covered with all your Montana Labor Movement news. Hosted by Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small.

  1. 4D AGO

    Data Centers & Unions Part II: Riley McCauley- Western States Regional Council of Carpenters

    In this follow-up episode, we continue the conversation on the evolving relationship between data centers and organized labor, diving deeper into the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry. Riley McCauley of the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters returns to share frontline insights on how unions are adapting to the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure across the country. Part two explores the realities of workforce development, the push for skilled labor in high-demand tech construction, and how unions are positioning themselves to ensure quality jobs in a sector often defined by speed and scale. Riley breaks down what responsible growth looks like, how partnerships between developers and labor groups can succeed, and why the future of data centers depends not just on technology—but on the people building it. Whether you’re in construction, tech, labor advocacy, or just curious about the forces behind the digital economy, this episode offers a grounded look at where things stand—and where they’re headed.

    32 min

  2. 6D AGO

    Data Centers & Unions Part I: Jason Small sits down with the President of LiUNA Local 1686, Adam Haight

    In this episode, the Montana AFL-CIO sits down with the president of LiUNA Local 1686 for a timely conversation on the intersection of organized labor and the rapid expansion of data centers. As demand for digital infrastructure grows, so does the need for a skilled, protected workforce to build and maintain it. Together, they explore what data center development means for Montana workers, how unions are working to secure good-paying jobs in this emerging sector, and why labor standards matter in shaping the future of tech-driven construction. The discussion also highlights the role of LiUNA in advocating for worker safety, training, and long-term career opportunities in a changing economic landscape. Whether you’re a union member, policymaker, or simply curious about how the digital economy impacts local labor, this episode offers valuable insight into the opportunities—and challenges—ahead.

    43 min

  3. JAN 23

    Advocating for Better Patient Care Following Organizing Win for Providers in Kalispell

    Last week healthcare providers won an historic election in Montana. On this edition of the Blue Collar news, Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small is joined by Dr. Stuart Bussey, president of the United Association of Physicians and Dentists, and organizer Alexandria Honey to highlight what's needs to be done to improve patient care and what doctors and providers in Kalispell are negotiating for.

    11 min

  4. 11/21/2025

    Empowering Young Workers in Montana's Tribal Communities with DLI Tribal Liaison Don Wetzel

    Donnie Wetzel, Jr, is the Tribal Liaison for the Montana Department of Labor and Industry and joined Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small in Helena to discuss his work engaging young people, coordinating and learning from tribal leaders, and the work being done to build strong communities and an empowered workforce. Topics covered in this edition of Blue Collar News include workforce development, apprenticeship opportunities in the trades, and the benefits of project labor agreements and prevailing wage laws. Wetzel is a member of the Blackfeet Nation and has over 20+ years of experience working with native communities.

    31 min

  5. 11/12/2025

    Montana Food Bank Network joins us to discuss the fight against food insecurity

    As the longest government shutdown in history appears to be coming to an end, Montana Food Bank Network CEO Gayle Carlson joins us to discuss how food banks across our state are stepping up to fight food insecurity in Montana. If you would like to donate or volunteer visit MFBN.org for more information.

    9 min

  6. 11/06/2025

    Social Security workers with AFGE 4012 and healthcare in Montana with Montana Nurses Association

    Throughout this shutdown federal workers in Montana are fighting for critical public services that ensure the health, safety, and well being of our communities.  In this episode of Blue Collar News AFGE 4012 President Jordan Harwell, who represents Social Security workers in several western states, joins us from Butte, Montana. We're also joined by the Montana Nurses Association's Chief Executive Officer Vicky Byrd to discuss why we're seeing healthcare premium increases across the state and why it's so important to renew the Affordable Care Act tax credits.

    27 min

  7. 08/22/2025

    Fighting for Grocery Store Workers in Montana with UFCW 1889

    UFCW Local 1889 joins Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small to discuss grocery story workers across our state, including recent bargaining wins for workers at Albertsons stores in Montana, how collective bargaining helps protect workers against AI and automation challenges, and why building power for working families is more important than ever.

    21 min

  8. 04/25/2025

    Whitefish Ski Patrol Fighting for First Contract

    For Montana skiers and boarders, Ski Patrol are a lifeline - they’re the ones who race out the door to help on people's worst days on the mountain, prevent avalanches inbounds, and keep us safe on the slopes. In this episode of the Blue Collar News, Jason sits down with Matthew Bagwill of the Whitefish Professional Ski Patrol Union, CWA Local 7781

    16 min
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About

From the shop floor to the State Legislature we've got you covered with all your Montana Labor Movement news. Hosted by Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small.

Information

  • Creator
    Montana AFL-CIO
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Blue Collar News
  • Show Website
    Blue Collar News