A Historic Choice for UAW Region 1
Your Director is Everywhere
LaShawn English made history as the first woman and first woman of color elected as Director of UAW Region 1. Her leadership is defined by a deep commitment to transparency, direct member engagement, and a relentless fight for worker dignity. From the smallest supply plants to the largest EV transition facilities, LaShawn is on the ground, ensuring every voice is heard and every local is empowered.
Since taking office, LaShawn has transformed the role of Director into one of absolute visibility. She is not a leader behind a desk; she is a leader in the lunchrooms, on the picket lines, and at the bargaining tables. Her philosophy is simple: 'Leadership must be seen to be trusted.' This presence has built a new culture of solidarity within Region 1, bridging the gap between the regional office and the rank-and-file membership.
Under her guidance, Region 1 has seen a resurgence in grassroots organizing and educational initiatives. She has prioritized training for local leadership and stewards, ensuring that every representative in the field has the tools and knowledge to defend contracts effectively. By championing both traditional manufacturing members and those in emerging sectors, LaShawn is crafting a diverse, unified front that is prepared for the future of organized labor.
Key Achievements & Sector Success
Supplier Sector Fights
LaShawn has led aggressive supplier sector strategy, ensuring that workers at critical supplier plants receive equitable contracts and robust union protections during pivotal industry shifts.
Locals 653, 155, 400, 2280
Successfully secured landmark contracts for members across Locals 653, 155, 400, and 2280, raising standards for job security and wages while unifying the membership.
EV Transition Victory
Championing a 'Just Transition,' LaShawn ensured Region 1 workers are at the forefront of the EV evolution, negotiating protections for veteran workers while organizing new tech facilities.
Visibility in Action
LaShawn English brings leadership where it matters most: with the members. From constant visibility at plants and local meetings to standing on rallies, her presence inspires solidarity. Recent organizing wins at the Michigan Science Center and Evolution Gaming prove that Region 1 is growing stronger through grassroots energy and dedicated advocacy.
Accomplishments & Milestones
LaShawn English has built a reputation as a trailblazing labor leader, skilled trades advocate, negotiator, and organizer within the United Auto Workers. Here are many of her key accomplishments and milestones:
Historic Leadership Achievements
- Became the first woman and first woman of color elected Director of UAW Region 1 in December 2022 following the union’s first direct ballot election.
- Previously became the first woman of color elected President of UAW Local 1264, serving three terms.
- Appointed by Shawn Fain as Director of the UAW Women’s Department in 2024.
Skilled Trades & Career Background
- Began her career in the skilled trades through United Association Building Trades Local 370.
- Earned her journeyman credentials as a steam fitter and licensed plumber.
- Worked as a pipefitter at the Stellantis Sterling Stamping Plant where she became active in union leadership.
Negotiating & Contract Leadership
- Served as a National Negotiator for Stellantis from 2015–2019.
- Played leadership roles during the UAW’s historic contract campaigns with the Big Three automakers that produced record wage and benefit gains for workers.
- Helped oversee and support organizing and bargaining efforts across multiple industries including: Automotive, Independent parts suppliers, Gaming, Higher education, Aerospace, and Public sector workers.
Organizing & Union Growth
- Helped lead organizing drives during a major national expansion push by the UAW.
- Publicly championed new organizing in emerging industries, including online gaming.
- Under her Region 1 leadership, the region has continued to expand education programs and member engagement across Southeast Michigan and Canada.
Representation & Community Work
- Represents more than 50,000 active and 100,000 retired members across multiple industries.
- Serves or has served on boards including A. Philip Randolph Institute, CBTU, and is a lifelong member of the NAACP.
- Invited guest of U.S. Senator Gary Peters to the 2024 State of the Union Address.
Leadership Style & Reputation
- Expanding educational programming for members and high visibility on shop floors.
- Advocating for women and underrepresented workers.
- Emphasizing organizing, solidarity, and direct member engagement.
- Bridging traditional manufacturing with emerging sectors and new organizing campaigns.