Melissa Bowen

I started my career with General Motors, working in the paint department at Detroit/Hamtramck in February 2016. The day I signed my Local 22 union card; I decided that I wanted to be an active and engaged member of the UAW. I attended meetings, volunteered for standing committee events, and enrolled in several classes at Region 1.

My interest in the UAW grew after watching documentaries on the history of unions. Thankful for my middle-class upbringing because my father was a UAW skilled tradesman at Chrysler, I wanted to give back. Inspired by Walter Reuther, I have always tried to represent the UAW with integrity and class.

When a shift was cut at Detroit/Hamtramck, I transferred to the Warren Tech Center, Local 160, in November 2017. There I continued with my involvement with the UAW and applied the camouflage on the test model vehicles.

In August 2018, I was called back to Detroit/Hamtramck, where I jumped right back in with volunteering. However, in November 2018, it was announced that the plant would be idled.

Thankfully, I received a transfer to Flint Assembly in March 2019. After a brief stint on the I.P. Line, I moved to a sequencing kit cell in the new trim shop on 2nd shift. During the 2019 strike, I was on the picket line everyday and my brand-new UAW tattoo on my left hand garnered some attention.

When I attended the Local 598 union meetings, I appreciated the efficiency and professionalism. Getting to know my new union brothers and sisters, I finally felt as though I found my home.

In March 2022, I became the Women’s Committee Chair for Local 598. The women’s committee or affectionately named “Solidarity Sisters of 598” has been one of the most active standing committees, hosting yearly events, offering t-shirt sales, and organizing fundraisers. With our participation in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, we have exceeded our goals, yearly. Fostering an inclusive committee, we often encourage members to “join us!”

I was elected as an Alternate Delegate for the 2022 Constitutional Convention. The following year I attended the Special Bargaining Convention and was elected as a Local 598 Trustee.

In my free time, I enjoy shopping, spending time with family and friends, and I am an avid concert go-er. I have seen the majority of my favorite classic rock bands multiple times, with my favorites being Bruce Springsteen, Sammy Hagar, and John Mellencamp. I live in Burton with my boyfriend, Mark and four small pups.

I would be honored to serve as Vice President for such a dedicated and hard-working membership. Local 598 deserves a leadership team that can work together. I think many of us are tired of division and tension and I know we are at our best when we join forces. With a passion for making a difference and improvement, the Solidarity Restored team is ready to get to work and I would be so thrilled to be a part of it.

Thank you for your consideration and I would appreciate your vote on April 29th.