Members also ratify the National Agreement and elect delegates to the National Convention. The convention, which convenes every two years, is the highest governing body in the union. Between conventions, the National Executive Board directs union policy and programs. Return to top of page 6. APWU operates on several levels.
Most members belong to a local union with jurisdiction in their city, town or area.
They may establish local dues and may negotiate a local contract to supplement the National Agreement on certain local concerns. Nationally, the APWU maintains a headquarters in Washington, DC to administer the union and to implement programs and policies mandated by the convention and the National Executive Board. The national resident officers include the president, the executive vice president, the secretary-treasurer, the national division officers, and department directors and officers, all of whom work under the general supervision of the president. In addition to national officers, each division has representatives in the field called national business agents. Return to top of page 7.