Our Members at Work: Jana Jordan

UFCW Local 175 member Jana Jordan is a Server at the Best Western North Bay Hotel & Conference Centre.

For 28 years, Jana has brought her warmth and care to her interactions with the guests to make their time at the hotel the best it can be.

Jana became a Union Steward for her co-workers more than 20 years ago. She wanted to take the lead and be a strong, active voice in representing the members at the hotel. Since then, she has been on the Union Negotiating Committee for at least five renewal collective agreements.

I really enjoy the role of Union Steward because I can help people, especially those that don’t know about their rights at work,” said Jana.

Jana’s workday starts early at 6 a.m. “I prepare the restaurant for breakfast service. I set up the tables, put on the coffee, and get ready for guests to arrive starting at 7 a.m.,” she explained. “Breakfast is busy and I handle all my own bills and cleanup.”

During the week, Jana has a chance to keep up with cleaning and putting things back in order between the end of breakfast and before lunch guests start to arrive. On the weekends though, there is no real slowdown. It is a fast-paced environment and physically demanding, and Jana serves until the restaurant closes after the lunch service.

Despite the pace and demands of the job, Jana enjoys working with people. “Sometimes it’s difficult because as a server, I try to meet every need quickly, and that can be a challenge,” said Jana. “But I want our guests to let us know if something is wrong, to simply ask me,” she added, “because it gives me a chance to put it right.”

Belonging to the Union has brought advantages that have kept Jana working at the hotel.

In this industry, the benefit package we have is uncommon and it’s very important to me,” she said. “And the ability to participate in the bargaining process as a worker and a Union member is something I enjoy.

In addition to extended benefits, Jana is proud that they have been able to negotiate good vacation language and paid sick days. “Those things set us apart from other workplaces,” she added.

Through her years as a member, Jana has participated in dozens of Steward courses through the weekend seminars and cell training. “The opportunities have been great,” she said, including learning about diversity, social media, and more. “I enjoyed the courses and I use the things I’ve learned regularly.”

The pandemic proved to be stressful for Jana. “My husband is medically fragile, and particularly at the start, we didn’t understand the virus and I was very worried.” As more was learned, Jana was able to better manage her stress levels. “We adapted to the new practices and I was less anxious about it.”

As COVID precautions have faded, Jana says the hotel is basically back to normal operations. “Our hotel is North Bay’s only conference hotel and we host many events and meetings,” she said. “Those are mostly back to the usual pace and we are busy, but we’re also still readjusting after the major disruption of the pandemic.”

“The stressful and fast-paced environment at work can lead to great shared experiences,” said Jana. And with her long career at the Best Western North Bay, Jana has made many lifelong friends, even though some have since moved on. She particularly enjoys encouraging friends to join her and her husband on vacations.

Thank you, Jana, for your years of commitment and service to your co-workers and the Members of UFCW Local 175. You are a valued member of your Union.