USW President Roxanne Brown: Industrial Trades, Bargaining, and the Future of Labor

In a historic conversation for Women’s History Month and our second-ever Trades Day, we are joined by Roxanne Brown, the 10th International President of the United Steelworkers (USW). As the first woman to lead North America’s largest industrial union, Brown shares her journey from an immigrant household in Jamaica to the halls of power in Washington, D.C. She discusses the unique challenges facing the industrial trades in 2026, including a massive bargaining year across the oil, steel and paper sectors. Brown also breaks down the USW’s strategy for combating digital misinformation, the importance of "kitchen-table" messaging and why the union is doubling down on leadership development to ensure the next generation of workers is ready to fight for the middle class. Key Takeaways A Historic Legacy: Brown reflects on her path to the presidency and her "member-first" leadership philosophy. 2026 Bargaining Blitz: Insights into upcoming negotiations in oil, aluminum, tires, and steel. The Trusted Messenger: Why local union leaders are the most effective voices in the fight against misinformation. Policy & Organizing: The USW’s stance on the upcoming USMCA renegotiations and domestic job protection.