The APWU has finally concluded the upgrading of mechanics and lead mechanics as prescribed in the 1998 National Agreement. It was very disappointing that the USPS refused to upgrade all of the mechanics. The APWU feels that most of the problem with hiring mechanics is the starting wage level.

However, the USPS is going to upgrade 70% of all automotive mechanics and upgrade all of the lead mechanics, vehicle maintenance analysis and junior mechanics. The vehicle maintenance analysis and junior mechanic were not part of the memorandum in the 1998 National Agreement, it was negotiated in addition to it.

The awarding of Level 7 Automotive Technician jobs will be done by seniority through the bidding process from the current Level 6 Automotive Mechanics. The APWU was able to maintain this as a senior qualified position when bid from the Level 6 Automotive Mechanic’s position despite strong pressure from the USPS to make it a best qualified position. To the best of my knowledge, this is the first time, in the history of the APWU that VMF employees have bee n upgraded. It is a giant step forward under the leadership of Motor Vehicle Director, Robert C. Pritchard with the help of Executive Vice

President William Burrus.