BlueOval SK is trying to stop union vote, but it will make us stronger | Opinion

I work at BlueOval SK as a Production Operator. Like many others, I saw this job as a huge opportunity. I came in with an open mind, fully aware that it was a new company, and that there would be growing pains. I had heard about the potential for unionization but wanted to experience the workplace for myself before making any judgments— just like the Army taught me: keep your head on a swivel and stay aware of your surroundings.

Even so, my support for forming a union came quickly. There was little to no actual training. We weren’t being prepared for the work we would eventually do. There are also constant policy changes that make it hard to plan our personal lives. We were initially told we could use Emergency PTO without question. Now, supervisors decide if our emergencies are “valid,” and if they don’t approve, we’re penalized. This isn’t just frustrating, it feels unethical. At our most vulnerable moments, when life happens unexpectedly, the company has the power to punish us rather than support us.

One day, the fire alarm went off, but I didn’t hear it. The noise from a nearby air hose leak drowned it out. I only found out we were evacuating because a coworker happened to walk past and told me. If that had been a real emergency, I could have been trapped. That’s not just poor communication — it’s dangerous.

I want my voice heard, promises kept, and a safer work environment. I want the peace of mind that comes with a union contract and a seat at the table to negotiate over our working conditions.

Before this role, I proudly served in the United States Army. I felt called to serve a greater purpose, and sought the structure and discipline that military life offers. The Army helped me grow, mature, and gain a deeper understanding of the world.

Prior to my military service, I worked at the Kroger warehouse, where we had a union, and I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed being part of a union. I had a strong sense of job security — I left work every day knowing I had a job to come back to. We had a contract that clearly outlined our benefits, and there were no surprises and no sudden policy changes. We knew exactly when to expect raises and what our healthcare coverage looked like. I could speak to my supervisors freely and directly.

BlueOval SK has spent millions on their “Vote No” campaign. They have dozens of union avoidance contractors in the plant, aggressively lying to me and my coworkers every day. Why are they trying so hard to stop us from having a seat at the table? It feels like they want total control without accountability. I believe in this company, and I am proud of the work I do, but I also know a collective voice of hourly employees would only help the company thrive for generations to come.

I’m Tyler Conner and I work at BOSK in production in Module and I’m voting yes for a better quality of life and a better future.