Show Steward Spotlight: Dwayne Cook

Local 40 member Dwayne Cook joined the redevelopment of the Warner Ranch property in Burbank in May of 2024 and, by September, he was operating as the worksite’s shop steward.

“You’re eyes and ears and a voice to a certain extent for the hall and the guys,” said Cook. “When someone’s frustrated about a circumstance or an event, if there’s no one to say something to, it can be really frustrating.”

Cook likens his role as shop steward as an extension of the Union Hall. He sees the steward role as one that can respond quicker to members’ concerns on the job site.

“First and foremost, we’re here to make sure everyone is treated fairly and that all sides are honoring our agreements,” Cook said. “Having someone you can reach out to that is more immediately here is important and important to a lot people as well, including myself.”

Cook has been a union member for nine years and credits Local 40 for changing his life.

“I went from scraping by to buying a house in six years,” said Cook, who also works as a fifth-year teacher in the Local’s apprenticeship program. “I don’t think there are any other places in this world where that kind of influence can happen to a person with hard work and dedication.”

It’s that relationship to unionism that motivates Cook to step up and be involved with Local 40 beyond just paying dues.

“I think it’s important to be a part of our Local,” Cook said, adding that he strives to create a positive atmosphere and reputation for the local. “I want to represent us in the field in some way in order to help us put our best foot forward.”

“I feel like it’s important to help nurture those that are coming behind me so that they can help make a better future for the people that come behind them,” Cook added. “In some way, I wanted to be involved. It’s just important.”