Podcast
Blue Collar News
Hosted by Montana AFL-CIO · EN
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.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Construction season with Montana's Department of Transportation Director, Chris Dorrington
3w ago00:56:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary, Jason Small, sits down with Chris Dorrington, Director of the Montana Department of Transportation, for a conversation about the current state and future of Montana’s transportation infrastructure.They discuss the ongoing construction season, major road and infrastructure projects across the state, workforce needs, and the importance of investing in safe, reliable transportation systems that support Montana communities and create good-paying union jobs. Tune in for an inside look at the work being done to keep Montana moving forward.
Transcribe →The MT AFL-CIO honors Montana Nurses during National Nurses Week Vicky Byrd
4w ago00:17:49Tap to summarizeIn this special episode, we celebrate the dedication and impact of nurses across the state during National Nurses Week.From long shifts to lifesaving care, Montana’s nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system—and their work doesn’t go unnoticed. We’ll explore how unions are supporting nurses on the front lines, advocating for safer working conditions, fair wages, and stronger communities.Join us as we hear stories of resilience, solidarity, and the power of collective action in honoring the people who care for us when we need it most.
Transcribe →Data Centers & Unions Part III: Dan Delbolt, Business Manager IBEW Local 532
4w ago00:36:36Tap to summarizeThe conversation continues with Part 3 of our Unions & Data Centers series—featuring Dan Delbolt, Business Manager of IBEW Local 532 and Chairman of the Montana State Conference of Electrical Workers. As data center development accelerates across the country, the role of skilled union electricians has never been more critical. In this episode, Dan shares how IBEW Local 532 is helping meet the moment—delivering highly trained professionals, upholding the highest safety standards, and ensuring these complex projects are built to last.Tune in as we discuss:⚡ The growing demand for union electricians in data center construction🏗️ How apprenticeship and training programs are preparing the next generation🤝 The value of union partnerships in powering critical infrastructureDon’t miss Part 3 of this important series exploring the intersection of labor and the digital economy.🎧 Listen now!#IBEW #UnionStrong #DataCenters #SkilledTrades #WorkforceDevelopment #Electricians
Transcribe →Data Centers & Unions Part II: Riley McCauley- Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
Apr 3000:32:00Tap to summarizeIn 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.
Transcribe →Data Centers & Unions Part I: Jason Small sits down with the President of LiUNA Local 1686, Adam Haight
Apr 2800:42:37Tap to summarizeIn 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.
Transcribe →Advocating for Better Patient Care Following Organizing Win for Providers in Kalispell
Jan 2300:10:44Tap to summarizeLast 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.
Transcribe →Empowering Young Workers in Montana's Tribal Communities with DLI Tribal Liaison Don Wetzel
Nov 2100:30:30Tap to summarizeDonnie 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.
Transcribe →Montana Food Bank Network joins us to discuss the fight against food insecurity
Nov 1200:09:23Tap to summarizeAs 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.
Transcribe →Social Security workers with AFGE 4012 and healthcare in Montana with Montana Nurses Association
Nov 600:26:33Tap to summarizeThroughout 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.
Transcribe →Fighting for Grocery Store Workers in Montana with UFCW 1889
Aug 2200:20:39Tap to summarizeUFCW 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.
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