Step 1: Petition Filed

A petition is filed requesting a union election for a specific group of employees, often called a bargaining unit.

Step 2: NLRB Review

The NLRB reviews the petition to confirm eligibility, determine the appropriate bargaining unit, and establish who is eligible to vote.

Step 3: Election Arrangements

The NLRB sets the election details, including the date, method (in‑person, mail, or electronic), and voting procedures.

Step 4: Secret Ballot Election

The NLRB sets the election details, including the date, method (in‑person, mail, or electronic), and voting procedures.

Step 5: Vote Count and Results

Votes are counted by the NLRB. If a majority of the votes cast are in favor of union representation, the union is certified as the exclusive bargaining representative. If a majority votes against representation, no union is certified.

 Who is eligible to vote?

This vote applies to hourly Operations and Technology employees, not just Production or Warehouse teams. Both full-time and part-time hourly employees are eligible to vote, while salaried employees are not included. If you are unsure whether your role falls under hourly Operations or Lab, please contact HR for clarification.

What if I'm on leave or PTO?

Per the NLRB’s regulations, there is no absentee ballot process for the election. Even if you are on PTO or leave you are eligible to vote, but you will need to come in-person to vote to voice your opinion on the future of the Axalta Mt. Clemens facility.

Why do we believe voting “No” is best for our site?

Mt. Clemens has a strong foundation, and we believe this site should continue to be a flagship for innovation and productivity within Axalta. 

A union could make it harder for us to maintain the kind of direct dialogue that has always helped this site succeed. For that reason, we encourage you to participate in the election and vote  NO – every vote matters!

Why is it important for me to vote?

Many of these elections are determined by one or a handful of votes. If you don’t vote, you’re giving others the power to make decisions about YOU. YOUR life. YOUR workplace. YOUR paycheck. Under federal law, elections are decided by a majority of the votes cast – NOT the majority of employees.

What can I do if I feel intimidated to vote a certain way in the election?

Voting for a union is done by secret ballot. Every person has the right to vote confidentially without anyone else knowing the choice they made. People will only know how you voted if you tell them. You have the right to choose the future you want at Mt. Clemens – and to tell other employees how you feel about this issue.

What if that doesn't work?

Part of our values as a company is to do what’s right for our customers and each other. We believe everyone has the right to feel seen, safe and supported at work. Axalta’s policies against harassment, discrimination, workplace violence and bullying remain in effect to protect our employees. 

Need to ask a question, raise a concern or report a violation?​

Call (800) 461-9330 or visit www.axalta.com/helpline

If there’s a majority of “Yes” votes, what happens next? 

If the majority of the votes are for the union, and the union is certified by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) as the collective bargaining representative of the Mt. Clemens site, every employee affected becomes represented by the union.

In most states, you can’t decide to opt-out of union representation if your site unionizes and your position is one of those within the bargaining unit represented by the union. Then, collective bargaining usually begins, which means negotiations start between Axalta and union representatives.

Can unions make Axalta change the way we operate or change policies?

Not without Axalta’s agreement. Unions cannot force Axalta to make any changes at all. Axalta would have to agree to changes during the collective bargaining process. Voting for union representation will not automatically change pay, benefits, or how we operate.

If a union is voted in, can I still deal directly with my manager for my own issues?

No. If voted in, the union would serve as the “exclusive bargaining representative” for employees. In other words, you would have to rely on them to speak for you regarding your terms and conditions of employment. In fact, under the National Labor Relations Act, Axalta would be prohibited from directly dealing with you in regard to your terms and conditions of employment. Without a union, you can speak for yourself, directly to your leaders and HR. 

When can we expect changes to take place if we are unionized? 

The process of negotiating the first contract typically takes time (often a year or more) because both sides must reach an agreement. 

Is a strike a possibility? 

Strikes are one tool unions may use in negotiations. Employees typically vote on whether to authorize a strike. A strike is a decision made by union leadership and members during negotiations. 

Are you tracking who supports the union? Can I be fired or retaliated against for supporting or opposing the union?

No. Everyone has the right to make their own decisions. Employees are legally protected from retaliation for their stance on unionization.