Nicole Greene, District 7 Health Care Workers Council Coordinator
Contact Information:
(219) 614-1658
nicolegreene1014@yahoo.com
Nicole Greene worked briefly as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) more than 18 years ago before she joined USW Local 1014 in Gary, Ind., known for its heavy steel membership. Little did she know at the time, the experience would come in handy in 2017 when the Steelworkers were searching for coordinators for its newly organized Health Care Workers Council.
“Director Millsap came to me because he knew I was a CNA long ago,” said Greene. “I know a lot has changed in the industry since I was in it, but I still wanted to do what I could to engage workers.”
Greene got her first taste of this desire to better the lives of workers and her community when she joined Local 1014’s Women of Steel Committee. “I liked what they stood for and how they came together,” she said.
Greene also was elected to be a trustee of the local, then treasurer, and in 2016, she was appointed to financial secretary, and in 2018, she ran for the position and won. For her, taking on the leadership positions, including District 7 health care coordinator, is all about service.
“I like working for our members and for our future,” she said.
When she first signed on to the Health Care Workers Council in 2017, Greene wanted to put the pedal to the metal. She suggested a district-wide tour of every local with health care members, and so the union did just that.
Along with Director Mike Millsap, Greene got to hear first-hand from members about the issues they felt needed to be addressed. For the amalgamated locals, this engagement was vital.
“I wanted them to know we care about them and that the union isn’t just about steel—it’s about all of us,” Greene said.