At Unifor there is an emphasis on education. The Paid Education Leave program (PEL) is a fund negotiated in collective bargaining with employers. It is used to develop and offer courses on topics relating to workers' experiences as well as teaching the critical thinking needed to negotiate with employers. PEL has its origins in 1977 at Rockwell International, an auto parts plant, where the fund was first negotiatiated by CAW. It has since become an important part of the Unifor experience.

PEL courses are offered at the Unifor Education Centre (UEC) at Port Elgin, Ontario. It is an over-night facility situated on Lake Huron in beautiful surroundings. Courses offered include one-week single topic courses as well as a four-week core program. The UEC has comfortable living quarters, fine dining and cafe options, and even a fitness centre.

The Family Education Program is offered most years in the summer at the UEC. Members are invited to apply in January for a limited number of spots. Members who are selected can bring their entire immediate families with them. Any pre-teens in attendance will take part in a recreational program organized by childcare workers.

Unifor Local 584 offers a few scholarships annually for dependent children of members – active or retired. Candidates must meet the requirements as outlined in the application form.

Click here to download the 'scholarship' application form or pick one up in person at the Union office.