Issue link: https://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/1181510
19 CULTURE With a foundation built on trust, Alabama Power has one of the strongest labor-management partnerships in the nation and is viewed as a model across the country. In the Southeast, less than 10% of workers are members of trade unions; however, Alabama Power relies on skilled tradespeople for continued operational excellence. About 40% of Alabama Power employees are represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). In addition, members of North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) construct and maintain the company's generating facilities. Both management and labor have worked hard over the years to build a positive relationship marked by continuous improvement. Focused on safety, increased training, community involvement and workforce development, the company has built a culture that exhibits trust with members of labor and is able to better serve its 1.4 million customers. COMPANY HONORED In August, the Alabama Organized Labor Awards Foundation (AOLAF) recognized the leadership and culture that support this labor-management relationship by presenting CEO Mark Crosswhite with its annual Friend of Labor award. AOLAF's mission is to promote the cause of organized labor and to honor members of labor who have distinguished themselves through unselfish service and leadership to the working people of Alabama. The foundation works to preserve the history of the labor movement in Alabama and promote its impact on the state. In presenting the award, Casey Shelton, IBEW System Council U-19 business manager, emphasized the common goals that are the foundation of the relationship, especially safety, training and a commitment to serve customers and communities. "This award is a result of our commitment to continuous improvement, safety and providing more training opportunities for our employees and those we need to recruit to meet the future needs of our customers, our industry and our state," Crosswhite said. "Together, we have such a great opportunity to improve the lives of those we serve." HISTORIC AGREEMENT FINALIZED The relationship between Alabama and the IBEW spans nearly eight decades and recently produced a milestone. During regular contract negotiations, the company's first six-year agreement was crafted and then ratified by the brotherhood with a 97% favorable vote. At the contract signing ceremony, company and IBEW leaders reflected on the labor-management partnership that is considered the "gold standard" for the industry. "Alabama Power is committed to our members, as well as their safety, training and development," said Shelton. "It is a privilege to work with a company that wants the best for its employees." "This agreement is the result of daily effort to develop a strong partnership," said Jeff Peoples, senior vice president of Employee Services and Labor Relations. "The values we share with the brotherhood STRONG LABOR- MANAGEM ENT PARTN ERSH I P DEVELOPS EM PLOYEES, STRENGTH ENS COM M U N ITI ES by Whitney Massey Alabama Power, IBEW leaders gathered for 2019 contract signing ceremony.

