The Young Worker Conference invites all workers, union or non-union, and activists from allied organizations to share ideas and grow skills for responding to the challenges facing working persons. Conference is led by workers 35 years or younger, but is open to all ages. You need only be young in spirit! We welcome participants from all genders and all cultural or ethnic backgrounds.
Information and registration for our upcoming conference below.
You can review the curriculums offered at past conferences below. To see photos and video from past conferences, visit the Young Workers Facebook Page.
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1. Media Mastery: Strategies for Digital, Social, and Print Excellence: This dynamic workshop provides participants with the knowledge and skills to develop effective media strategies across digital, social, and print platforms. Through hands-on exercises and expert insights, attendees will learn how to craft impactful content, optimize engagement, and integrate various media channels for maximum reach.
2. Organizing for Power: Strategies for Union and Community Leaders: This interactive workshop is designed for union organizers and community leaders seeking to build stronger, more effective organizations. Participants will learn proven strategies for managing campaigns, engaging members, and sustaining long-term movements.
3. Union Basics & Standing Committees: Building Stronger Worker Power: This workshop provides an introduction to the fundamentals of union structure, function, and the critical role of standing committees. Participants will gain a clear understanding of how unions operate, why committees are essential, and how to effectively engage members in union activities.
4. Leadership: Setting the Standards for Union Strength: Strong leadership sets the foundation for a powerful and effective union. This workshop is designed to help union leaders and activists develop the skills needed to set high standards, inspire members, and drive meaningful change.
5. Mastering Parliamentary Procedure: Conducting Effective and Orderly Meetings: This interactive workshop is designed to equip participants with the basic understanding of parliamentary procedure, enabling them to participate and conduct meetings and with fairness, efficiency, and decorum. Through practical exercises and real-world scenarios, attendees will learn to apply the principles of Robert's Rules of Order.
6. Mental Health in the Workplace: Fostering a Supportive and Productive Environment: This comprehensive workshop is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to promote mental well-being within the workplace. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, participants will gain insights into fostering a culture that prioritizes mental health, leading to member satisfaction and a more supportive environment.
7. Mastering Contract Negotiations: Strategies for Successful Agreements: This workshop is designed to equip participants with the basic skills and knowledge required to prepare for and conduct contract negotiations. Through interactive sessions, and role-playing exercises, attendees will gain practical experience to enhance their confidence and competence in securing favorable contract outcomes.
8. Personal Finance 201: Personal finance 201 will pick up where 101 left off. 201 will provide traditional and non-traditional prep retirement planning strategies that can also benefit your retirement and non-retirement financial goals.
9. Effective Conflict Resolution: Building Harmonious Workplaces: This interactive workshop is designed to equip participants with the skills and strategies necessary to navigate and resolve conflicts within the workplace effectively. Attendees will explore the nature of conflict, understand its impact on organizational dynamics, and learn practical techniques to manage disputes constructively.
10. Civics 101: Understanding Your Role in Democracy: This workshop provides a foundational understanding of political power, empowering participants to engage actively in their communities and government. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, attendees will explore how to participate effectively in civic life to make a difference.
COST is $600 ($540 tuition, $60 mandatory meal fee)
Please register and pay by June, 19th, 2025. If we receive the full $600 payment by that date, you are eligible for the Express Lane—a shorter wait in line to check in. Mandatory meal payment covers 2 lunches and 2 breakfasts. Tuition assistance programs (TAP) cover tuition, but not meals. If using TAP, apply for $540 tuition. You or your union must include the $60 meal payment with your registration.
First check-in is Thursday, June 26th from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. A welcome program that evening runs from 7 - 9 pm. There is a second check-in period from 7:30-9:00 am Friday, June 27th. Friday and Saturday programs begin at 9am and run until 5:00 pm.
The Somerset Inn, 2601 W Big Beaver Rd., Troy, MI 48084.
Call (800) 228-8769 or (248) 643-7800 to reserve a room at the Somerset Inn at $124 per night (Queen Bed) or $149 per night (King bed) plus taxes. Rooms are held at this rate until Thursday June 19th. Mention YWC for these rates. Note hotel cancellation deadlines. You will be charged if you fail to cancel by the hotel’s deadline.
The last date to withdraw at no cost is Thursday, June 19th. To be valid, cancellations must be emailed to CLCS.info@umich.edu. Registrants who not cancel by the deadline or fail to attend owe full payment of $600.00.
A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Call to inquire or refer to the scholarship portion of our website.
