State of Nebraska employees are becoming union members in record numbers, and the list of workplaces with majority membership continues to grow. The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) recently joined the list of workplaces that have majority union membership.
When union members at DED ask their colleagues to join their union, chances are they are already speaking to a fellow union member.
Chelsea Egenberger, a NAPE/AFSCME steward at DED continues to encourage her coworkers to join their union. “Union membership is vital to building solidarity across the state and is essential for upholding our rights as workers. Being part of the union means recognizing our collective power and working together to promote quality of life for all Nebraskans. Union membership provides me an opportunity to actively improve working conditions for my colleagues and myself,” Chelsea said.
Economic Development Consultant Nora Furr, worked as a non-contract covered state employee for two years before starting at DED. When she started her new position, she was excited to be in a contract covered position. “I was excited to join the union when I started at DED,” Nora said. “I was already planning on joining, but after meeting with a union representative in my first week, I was sure it was something I wanted to be a part of. It’s important to protect our rights as state employees.”
DED members have united to protect public services amid budget cuts and staff turnover at the agency. It’s also important to strengthen our collective voice as we gear up for our next round of contract negotiations in September 2026. Considering joining your union? Stand with your colleagues and join today.