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(ACROSS NEW YORK STATE) – A diverse group of more than 100 Professional and Non-Professional Employees at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Water Science Center for New York have voted overwhelmingly to join the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE)-International Association of Machinists (IAM), marking another major organizing victory for Federal Workers seeking a stronger voice on the job.<\/p>\n
The newly-organized Bargaining Unit includes Hydrologic Technicians, Geologists, Physical Scientists, Hydrologists, Biologists and other Science Professionals who perform critical work monitoring and protecting New York\u2019s water resources.<\/p>\n
The Workers voted 88% in favor of Union Representation following a grassroots organizing campaign that united employees across multiple locations throughout the State.<\/p>\n
Biologist Rebecca Gorney, who served as an Organizing Committee Leader, played a pivotal role in the successful campaign, helping build support among Co-Workers and coordinated efforts to secure signed Membership forms and encourage participation throughout the election process: \u201cI come from a proud Union Family and I experienced firsthand the value of Union Representation in my previous State Government job. When dramatic changes began affecting Federal Workers in 2025, conversations among my Co-Workers quickly turned toward organizing. As we watched staffing levels decline through firings and buyouts, many of us realized the importance of having a \u2018collective\u2019 voice. Through all the uncertainty, Employees came to see that a Union provides stability, protection and a voice in the workplace. We are grateful to join the NFFE-IAM and look forward to working together to restore opportunities like telework, ensuring fair access to training and advancement and building a stronger future for everyone at the USGS Water Science Center.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Throughout the campaign, Employees engaged their Co-Workers across the State, discussing the benefits of Collective Bargaining and the importance of having a united voice on workplace issues.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis campaign is a perfect example of what happens when Workers take ownership of their future and stand together for a stronger voice on the job,\u201d IAM Assistant Organizing Director Juan Eldridge said. \u201cRebecca and her Co-Workers built this victory from the ground up through determination, solidarity and countless conversations with their fellow Employees. We are proud to welcome these dedicated USGS Professionals into the NFFE-IAM family and look forward to helping them build a strong first contract.\u201d<\/p>\n
The victory adds to the Union\u2019s growing presence among Federal and Professional Employees and highlights the increasing interest in Union Representation among Scientific and Technical Workers.<\/p>\n