Jason Elder reflects on nearly a decade as Local President, the significance of 25-and-out, and why he believes members should “get involved, don’t be shy, and make a difference.”
Q: How did you first get involved in the union?
A: “I asked a lot of questions, and had really strong mentors. That’s really how I got started.” That mentorship led Jason to serve as Local President for the better part of a decade where he worked to support firefighters and advocate for members.
Q: Why has union involvement been so important to you?
A: ” I’m benefiting from the collective agreements that came before me.” While fair pay and benefits matter, Jason says what’s even more important is protecting workers. “Health and safety is huge. UNDE holds the employer to the fire when it comes to workers’ rights and health and safety.”
Q: What was your reaction when 25-and-out became a reality?
A: “It’s a massive win, and I have gratitude for everyone who’s fought for it.” But Jason says the work isn’t finished. “We basically got one of the three things we asked for. The big one now is increasing the pension accrual rate to 2.33%.”
Q: Why is that next step so important?
A: “Twenty-five-and-out by itself is very minimal.” While firefighters can now retire after 25 years of service, Jason says many still won’t be able to afford to. “I’m not going to be able to retire on a 50% pension.” He believes improving the accrual rate is essential to making retirement a realistic option.
Q: What advice would you give members who are thinking about getting involved?
A: “Jump on it. Don’t be shy. Make a difference.” Jason believes unions are strongest when members participate. “At the end of the day, the union is incredibly important—not just for collective agreements, but for holding the employer accountable. If you want to make a difference, get involved.”