Per the WSU/UAW 2024–2026 Contract, Article 7.3, and RCW 41.56.037, the Union is permitted thirty (30) minutes at any Hiring Unit, Campus, Extension, or Department employment orientation for new Academic Student Employees (ASEs).
We want to make you aware of a change in the coordination process for union orientations for new ASEs. Last year, Labor Relations coordinated these sessions; however, for Fall 2025, the UAW will be reaching out to departments directly to coordinate the union orientation sessions. We have provided the UAW with contact information for department graduate program coordinators and directors to assist in this process.
These sessions, conducted by the Coalition of Academic Student Employees (CASE), are optional for new ASEs but are considered time worked for those who choose to attend.
Departmental Orientation Considerations
If your department is planning an orientation for Academic Student Employees (ASEs)—such as TA training that focuses on employment-related responsibilities—please note the following. This guidance applies only to ASE-specific orientations and does not pertain to general academic graduate student orientations.
- We recommend scheduling the 30-minute union orientation immediately following the conclusion of your departmental orientation.
- If your orientation is held in a secure space not accessible to non-unit personnel, please be prepared to identify an alternative nearby location (e.g., office or conference room) for the union to hold its session.
- If your department is not holding an employment orientation, the UAW may request to hold a union orientation at a location and time convenient for new ASEs in your department.
- If your department does not expect to employ new ASEs, no union orientation is required.
While Labor Relations will not be coordinating these sessions this year, please don’t hesitate to reach out to hrs.labor@wsu.edu if you have questions about your obligations or need support in accommodating union access.