February 2026: Unit 15 Statewide Upward Mobility JLMC Meeting

Unit 15 employees deserve equal access to career development, training, and upward mobility programs. Many workers, however, do not work at desks and have limited access to computers, email, or online registration systems. Our Union’s Bargaining Unit 15, Statewide Upward Mobility JLMC (Joint Labor Management Committee) met on February 11, 2026 to address Unit 15 challenges and solutions across departments with the State.

Supporting Custodians, Cooks & Non‑Desk Staff Across Departments

Key Challenges Identified

Digital only communication excludes many workers.
Notices for Lunch & Learns, training, and career resources are often sent only by email or intranet.

Limited or inconsistent computer access.
Some sites have computer kiosks, career‑center stations, or supervisor offices with computers but employees often do not know access is available.

Scheduling barriers.
Employees working in kitchens, residential areas, secure units, or remote field offices often cannot travel to computer locations during shifts.

Awareness gaps.
Many employees are unaware that:

– Lunch & Learns exist
– Sessions are recorded
– Career Centers offer virtual appointments
– Permission can be requested to use computers during work hours

Department Highlights

DGS
  – Weekly Lunch & Learns plus “Tidbit Tuesday.”
  – Sessions recorded and posted on Pathways.
  – Exploring huddle announcements and building‑manager communication.

CDCR
  – Lunch & Learns vary by institution.
  – Flyers and supplemental communication used in some locations.
  – Central bulletin boards may be used more consistently.

DMV
  – Career Center open Tue/Wed/Thu (HQ) as well as virtual.
  – Extra supervisor computers available for custodians upon request.
  – Custodial staff vary (DGS/DMV mixed).

DDS / DSH
  – Kiosks and printed materials in some campuses.
  – Developing or reviewing Lunch & Learn‑style trainings.
  – Staff may request computer access for training.

CHP
  – Strong upward mobility engagement with printed flyers, supervisor outreach, and bulletin boards.
  – Offers virtual and in‑person informational sessions.

EDD
  – Quarterly Lunch & Learns; notices currently mainly via email.
  – Custodial staff vary (DGS/EDD mixed).

Solutions & Opportunities Proposed to the State

1. Post Printed Information in Common Areas
  – Monthly calendars
  – Flyers with dates, times, QR codes, and registration steps
  – Notices for computer‑access locations onsite
  – Post information at time clocks and break rooms

2. Announce Opportunities During Stand‑Up Meetings
  – Works well for staff who do not check email
  – Reinforces awareness and increases participation

3. Clarify Where Employees Can Access Computers
Examples across departments:
  – Career centers
  – Supervisor offices
  – Kiosks or admin buildings
  – Shared desktops in break areas

4. Allow Access During Lunch or Approved Training Time
  – Ensures employees can sign up or attend sessions without leaving duties unattended

5. Promote Recorded Training Options
  – Helps employees who cannot attend live sessions
  – Supports night‑shift staff and field‑based positions