Greg Middleton (IBEW 1837) to Be Awarded 2024 Shop Steward of the Year

IBEW 1837 member Greg Middleton, a first-class lineworker at Versant Power, has been selected by a special committee as the 2024 Shop Steward of the Year for his unwavering dedication to the well-being of his fellow co-workers. Middleton will receive his award at the upcoming COPE Convention Awards Banquet on Thursday, June 27 in Auburn. He was nominated for the award by IBEW 1837 Business Representatives Kaitlyn Hegarty and Renee Gilman.

“Greg embodies everything one could hope for in a union member and steward,” wrote Hegarty in her nomination. “His proactive method and relentless support for his co-workers make him an exemplary candidate for this recognition.”

Middleton grew up in New Jersey, but now lives in Brewer. He previously worked for Central Maine Power for four years before starting at Versant in 2018. In 2020, he was asked to sit in on negotiations to substitute for a coworker who had been called up for overseas duty with the National Guard. A proposal by the company to extend the contract divided workers and tempers flared on both sides. It was after that experience that Middleton decided he wanted to get more involved in the union to help better foster communication.

“Seeing the disaster unfold made me think that if I could get involved maybe we could avoid this,” said Middleton. “I wanted to make sure the members were informed and that everyone understood the contract, what their rights are and what the company’s rights are so we can avoid that type of disaster. I would hate to see people leave the company because they misunderstood their rights or thought they were misrepresented by the union."

Middleton says he never stops learning and believes strongly in professional development by attending trainings and the Maine AFL-CIO’s Labor Summer Institute. He often looks at older contracts and talks to more senior employees to get the context for why certain provisions were put into the contract.

“I don’t get too upset or emotionally involved in these issues, but I have a lot of empathy for my members and it makes me feel good that I can serve them,” said Middleton. “I find it really important to protect rights for workers.”

His commitment to his service was on display when he  landed at Bangor Airport after a family vacation and walked directly from the airport to a hotel to join negotiations with Versant. He serves as a unit chair and his leadership draws people to the meetings because they know he’s in charge.

“Serving as a unit chair, Greg takes immense pride in leading the monthly meetings, consistently demonstrating his commitment to ensuring that his colleagues are well-informed and supported,” wrote IBEW 1837 Business Representative Renee Gilman for Middleton’s nomination in 2023. “Whenever challenges arise, Greg takes it upon himself to find practical solutions and address any issues affecting his co-workers.”

He also successfully organized a T-shirt drive, designing the shirts and delivering them to over 200 members. The shirts serve as a visible symbol of solidarity during the company's safety days, showcasing Greg's dedication to fostering a strong and united team environment.

“Greg’s consistent advocacy for the union’s betterment is significant,” added Hegarty. “He approaches difficult issues with a level head and calm demeanor, displaying caution and intelligence in his words. Greg’s huge heart and selflessness shine through in all his actions, demonstrating his genuine care for others.”