Southern Norway Engineering Conference: Union representatives in troubled times
At a time characterized by geopolitical turmoil, digital transformation and tighter economic frameworks, the need for secure workplaces is greater than ever.
Close to 100 union representatives from NITO gathered in Kragerø to discuss how they can best secure everyday life for their colleagues. The conference had a clear goal: to strengthen cooperation between the union representatives and give them the tools they need in the future.
NITO's President Kjetil Lein opened the conference with a clear message:
"We are growing, and we are now Norway's fifth largest trade union. Size is of great importance. We have become a power factor, and we will manage that power for the good of the members.
Lein's words set the tone for the conference, which was not about listing problems, but about finding practical solutions. The various lectures and discussions provided a clear picture of how NITO's union representatives can use their influence to create security. This applies both to private companies undergoing restructuring and to the public sector with tight budgets.
The new union representative role: From reactive to proactive
One of the most important threads of the conference was the shift in the role of the union representative. According to Didrik Bakken, advisor at KS (pictured), the new role is about being an active participant and contributor to development, not just a commentator.
As he said: "Knowledge gives security, security gives trust, and trust gives results.
This was also emphasized by organizational advisor and specialist in management and interaction, Ranveig Rønningen, who spoke about the importance of the union representative in life crises. She emphasized being an empathetic colleague who can ask the important question: "How do you want to feel?" By offering the workplace as a "free zone" for those who need it, you create a trust that goes beyond formal meetings.
Navigating a complex landscape
The conference emphasised that safety in the workplace is linked to broader, global challenges. Andreas Myhre from Future Commodities (pictured) explained how geopolitical turmoil affects the Norwegian power situation. His speech drew a direct line from energy security to security in everyday life.
Torbjørn Lia, emergency preparedness manager at Vestfold Hospital, emphasized the importance of emergency preparedness in a turbulent world. He referred to a letter from the National Security Authority that warned of unwanted activity around Norwegian infrastructure. Here, it became clear that union representatives can play an important role by asking questions about digital and physical security measures.
Tools for everyday challenges
The conference also provided participants with concrete strategies for tackling challenges in daily operations. Jessica Stenholm from Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital (pictured) has worked with racism in the workplace for a long time. Her colleagues experienced spitting, derogatory words and demands for a "white" colleague, before action was taken. Now they have moved the shame from individuals into a common practice:
"Talk in plenary, support each other, answer calmly and stand your ground. Small steps mean that more people dare to speak up and fewer are left alone. The more you are, the stronger you are.
This topic was followed up by Vivi Ringnes Berrefjord and the panel discussion on digital surveillance. Here, participants were encouraged to be curious and ask critical questions to their employer about tracking and monitoring of employees, to ensure that privacy is safeguarded.
Empowering community with diversity
One of the most inspiring contributions was the story of Quality Hotel River Station, winner of the Diversity Award 2024. Hotel manager Jakob Bergman Hole and director Johanna Skjelsbek explained how they actively include people with different backgrounds and disabilities. Their success is based on a philosophy of focusing on what people can do, rather than what they can't.
This approach showed that workplace safety is not just about safety in times of crisis, but also about creating a generous and inclusive environment that values diversity.
A strengthened union representative in a new era
The Southern Norway engineering conference provided a comprehensive picture of the role of the union representative – from tackling major geopolitical issues to creating an empathetic and inclusive working environment.
The conference showed that NITO's union representatives are the key to creating security in an increasingly complex working life. By being proactive, knowledgeable and, not least, by caring about their fellow human beings, they can manage the power that President Kjetil Lein spoke of, for the good of all members.
