GENE WASHINGTON
Maywood, IL
Summary
Dynamic Senior Union Representative and Public Safety Commissioner with over 30 years of experience in labor negotiations, public safety, and logistics. Proven leader in high-pressure environments, adept at problem-solving, strategic decision-making, and building relationships. Recognized for aligning outcomes with organizational objectives, with expertise in labor law, mediation, emergency response, and crisis management. Strong communicator, public speaker, and experienced board member with extensive experience in team leadership, union advocacy, and public sector governance.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Maywood Police and Fire Commissioner
.
09.2018 - Current
- Conducted hiring and termination processes for police officers and firefighters.
- Managed background checks, ordered psychological and physical exams.
- Promoted and demoted personnel, while also handling disciplinary actions and rewards.
Board of Directors (Secretary)
Illinois Public Pension Fund Association (I.P.P.F.A.)
01.2018 - Current
- Advocated for police and fire pensions across Illinois.
- Provided ongoing education for pension board members on topics including pension management and P.T.S.D. training.
- Introduced new legislation aimed at enhancing the financial security and benefits for public safety personnel.
Senior Union Representative
SEIU Local 73
01.2005 - Current
- Negotiated over 50 Collective Bargaining Agreements, ensuring fair labor practices for union members across multiple industries.
- Managed and resolved disputes, securing favorable settlements for employees in 90% of cases.
- Acted as a mediator in labor-management meetings, ensuring smooth conflict resolution and improved relationships between parties.
- Organized training sessions for new union members, increasing awareness of rights and policies.
Firefighter / Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Maywood Fire Department
01.1990 - 01.2018
- Responded to over 1,000 emergency calls, providing critical first responder care in life-threatening situations, including fire suppression, rescue operations, and medical emergencies.
- Led firefighting teams in the safe evacuation of citizens and extinguishing of residential, commercial, and vehicle fires, reducing property damage, and saving lives.
- Delivered CPR and First Aid training as a certified instructor, increasing public awareness and preparedness for emergencies within the community.
- Elected President of the Maywood Firefighters Union, advocating for firefighters' rights and benefits, negotiating contracts, and coordinating community fundraising efforts to support local causes.
- Organized and executed annual fundraising events, raising over $100,000 for fire department resources and community programs during tenure.
- Operated Class B vehicles with air brakes, ensuring the timely and safe transportation of firefighting equipment and personnel to emergency sites.
Truck Driver / Dock Worker
Transportation Unlimited
01.1991 - 01.2007
- Safely operated commercial trucks for local and long-distance transportation of goods, managing logistics for deliveries and pickups while maintaining strict adherence to safety regulations.
- Loaded and unloaded cargo using forklifts and pallet jacks to handle heavy equipment efficiently, reducing delivery times, and improving supply chain operations.
- Maintained precise inventory records, ensuring accurate delivery of products and reducing discrepancies in shipment logs by 20%.
- Collaborated with warehouse teams to optimize logistics workflows, cutting down on delivery delays, and improving customer satisfaction.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Jamestown University
North Dakota01-1986
Coursework in Public Administration -
Triton College
River Grove, IL, 01-1984
Skills
- Negotiation & Mediation: Expert in navigating complex labor negotiations and resolving workplace disputes through arbitration and mediation
- Labor Law Proficiency: Comprehensive knowledge of labor regulations, union contracts, and workers' rights
- Leadership & Team Management: Skilled at leading teams in both firefighting and union environments, promoting teamwork and accountability
- Public Speaking & Training: Conducted educational workshops, excelling in conveying complex concepts to diverse audiences
- Emergency Response Expertise: Certified CPR Instructor with extensive first responder experience
- Technical Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Excel for data management and analysis
- CDL-Class B Expertise: Licensed to operate CDL-Class B vehicles with air brakes, ensuring transportation efficiency
Certifications
- CDL-Class B License with Air Brakes
- CPR Instructor Certification
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Maywood Police and Fire Commissioner
.
09.2018 - Current
Board of Directors (Secretary)
Illinois Public Pension Fund Association (I.P.P.F.A.)
01.2018 - Current
Senior Union Representative
SEIU Local 73
01.2005 - Current
Truck Driver / Dock Worker
Transportation Unlimited
01.1991 - 01.2007
Firefighter / Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Maywood Fire Department
01.1990 - 01.2018
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Jamestown University
Coursework in Public Administration -
Triton College
Similar Profiles
OSAMA BANI BAKEROSAMA BANI BAKER
Barber at .Barber at .
Bryce F. CarterBryce F. Carter
Freelance Software Developer at .Freelance Software Developer at .
Diana MenaDiana Mena
Private Caregiver at .Private Caregiver at .