The members of HFIAW Local 64 Tulsa elected their first female Business Manager to lead the Local last fall. Teresa Payne had held previous elected positions in the small Local before being encouraged to seek a higher office. “I started in June of 2018, and my apprenticeship began in September of the same year,” Payne said. “I’ve previously served on the Executive Board and as a Trustee, always driven by my passion to support our Local.” After turning out in 2022, the 40-person Local encouraged Payne to run for Business Manager. Her husband, Local 64 President Tom Payne, swore her in at the Local’s November 2023 meeting.

Breaking barriers and facing challenges

Since joining the union and working in a male-dominated field, Payne admitted she faced a number of challenges. “Some of the guys ribbed me at first, but I showed up and worked hard,” she said. “I had to prove that I was here to contribute, not just occupy space.” Since becoming Business Manager, she has faced even more challenges, including dealing with double-breasted contractors in the So-Called “Right to Work” state of Oklahoma. With larger jobs starting up, such as the Google datacenter in Pryor, Okla., Payne is looking to organize more union contractors and increase the size of Local 64’s registered apprenticeship program. “Work is steadily picking up in our jurisdiction,” she said. “I want to get my Local ready to man this work.”

Promoting diversity and inclusion

In an effort to also promote diversity and inclusion, Payne is spearheading initiatives to elevate Local 64’s visibility and accessibility in the state. “We aim to participate in more job fairs, showcasing male and female Mechanical Insulators,” she said. “Representation matters, and by showcasing our diverse membership, we invite more individuals to explore opportunities in our trade.” Local 64 has five female members, which is significant for a small Local. Reflecting on the significance of her recent election, Payne plans to take on more initiatives, including advocating for fair labor practices and worker rights. “While still acclimating to my new position, I believe my role will evolve to address these crucial issues,” she said, adding that she hopes to empower members through education and proactive engagement.

Goals for Local 64

Looking ahead, Payne believes Local 64 will have a thriving future, centered on professional development and community engagement. “We’re committed to enhancing our apprenticeship program and expanding our community outreach,” she said. By fostering growth and community involvement, she aims to fortify the Local’s reputation. “The camaraderie within our Local is unparalleled,” she said. Their participation and support have been invaluable, from Labor Day parades to helping apprenticeship classes.” As part of her efforts to organize more contractors and increase market share, Payne wants to increase awareness about the benefits of mechanical insulation, when properly installed by union professionals. “We’re exploring avenues like energy audits to showcase our value to businesses and institutions,” she said. “Businesses don’t know what we do and how much we can save them money and energy by properly installing mechanical insulation.” These same efforts may also create more work opportunities for her members closer to home. “Right now, about half of our members are traveling,” she said. “I would like to allow them to work closer to home.”

Advice for future female leaders

For aspiring female union leaders, Payne advocates persistence and active involvement. “Show up, volunteer and know your union’s regulations,” she said. “Present solutions, not just problems and never underestimate the power of your voice.”