HFC welcomes Labor Relations Specialist Raya York
Hdmittedly, FC Labor Relations Specialist Raya York says she “stumbled into” labor relations and realized that she enjoyed it.
“I was one of those people who was undecided and trusted the universe would guide me to the right place,” said York. “After I graduated from the University of Michigan, I started at a temp agency for a car-hauler company that was represented by the Teamsters union. I became known as someone who was very familiar with the contract and from there, labor relations became a path forward.”
York worked as a shuttle driver for a subsidiary of the Canadian National Railway Company and served as the union steward for Teamsters Local 299 for six years.
“I was actually on the other side of table, representing the union and employees,” she said.
Earning her Human Resources Professional Certification is a proud accomplishment
A product of the Detroit Public Schools, York graduated from Renaissance High School. She enrolled at U-M in Ann Arbor, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English language, and literature.
York later earned both her master’s degree in communications and her graduate certificate in dispute resolution from Wayne State University. Recently, York earned her Human Resources Professional Certification (PHR) from the Human Resources Certification Institute.
“I worked hard for it,” she said. “This is one of my proudest accomplishments.”
For 2½ years, York worked on the labor relations teams at U-M Hospital in Ann Arbor.
“It was a combination of health care and higher education,” she recalled. “I was assigned to the nursing and the house officers’ contract. I enjoyed working with the house officers, and that work piqued my interest in exploring a career in higher education.”
Welcoming College
York joined HFC in July. HFC Talent Acquisition Coordinator Terri Hagen recruited her.
“I was really excited about the idea of shared leadership, being able to participate in decision-making, and being in an environment where my input and recommendations are seriously considered. I also wanted to work in an environment that was welcoming and collaborative. Because HFC is a Welcoming College, that was very attractive,” explained York.
York reports to HFC Assistant Director of Employee and Labor Relations Mark Tade.
“Mark has a vast knowledge and many years of experience in labor relations,” said York. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to learn from him.”
York’s duties include:
- Participating in contract negotiations
- Conducting investigations
- Advising management
- Facilitating the grievance process
“I really enjoy negotiation preparations,” said York. “Once we’re at the table, I enjoy the dialogue. Many times, it seems people are at odds, but that’s not always the case. We get to have candid talks about what each other’s interests are and how we can work together to meet them.”
Goal is chief negotiator
York will participate in Support Staff Association negotiations in 2024.
“I want to learn as much as I can and eventually develop into a chief negotiator,” she said. “I will do all I can to help the ABIDE Strategy and contribute to the College’s Strategic Plan.”
“Raya brings significant experience in labor relations in both administrative and bargaining unit leadership roles to our Human Resources team,” said Tade. “She has already impressed us with her thoughtful and knowledgeable input on some of the LR and HR matters she’s observed. I am excited to have her on board, and I am looking forward to her contributions to our department and to HFC.”
Outside HFC, York is an active member of the Labor and Employment Relations Association and is a board member of Boys 2 Men Youth Mentoring. She is also a Michigan State University Master Gardener.
“I love the gardens on the HFC campus. I love taking walks on the trails,” said York.
“Everyone I’ve met has been great,” she added. “I’m excited to be here and contribute my experiences to the College."