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What does Montana's air quality look like today, and how does the state balance environmental protection with economic growth?

On this episode of Blue Collar News, Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small sits down with the Director of the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for an in-depth conversation about the issues shaping Montana's future. They discuss recent air quality trends across the state, how wildfire smoke and other factors impact communities and workers, and what the DEQ is doing to monitor and protect the air Montanans breathe.

The conversation also explores the permitting process for major projects—from energy infrastructure to data centers and other large-scale developments—and how the DEQ evaluates these projects while balancing environmental stewardship, economic opportunity, and public input.

Whether you're a union member, contractor, employer, policymaker, or simply interested in the future of Montana, this episode offers an inside look at the decisions that affect jobs, communities, and the state's natural resources.

Listen now for a thoughtful discussion on responsible growth, environmental accountability, and what lies ahead for Montana's workforce.

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We're proud to launch Natives in Labor, a special three-part series exploring the opportunities, challenges, and future of the skilled trades in Montana's tribal communities.

In this first episode, we take a closer look at prevailing wage—what it is, why it matters, and how it impacts workers, public projects, and tribal economies. Our guests break down common misconceptions, explain how prevailing wage helps create family-supporting careers, and discuss the role it plays in ensuring quality craftsmanship while investing in local communities.

Whether you're a union member, contractor, tribal leader, policymaker, or simply interested in the future of Montana's workforce, this conversation offers valuable insight into one of the most important issues affecting construction and economic development across Indian Country.

Join us as we begin this important conversation on building stronger communities, expanding opportunities, and creating pathways to good-paying union careers for Native workers.

Blue Collar News—where the voices of working people shape the future of Montana.

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What does it take to keep experienced nurses at the bedside? On this episode of Blue Collar News, we dive into the ongoing contract negotiations between Montana Nurses Association Local #5 Registered Nurses at St. James Healthcare and Intermountain Health.

After months at the bargaining table, nurses share why they're fighting to protect their contract, preserve fair wages, and retain experienced healthcare professionals in Butte.

Robin Haux, Labor Program Director for the Montana Nurses Association, explain why this contract fight isn't just about nurses—it's about ensuring the Butte community continues to receive safe, high-quality healthcare from experienced caregivers.

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We're proud to launch "Natives in Labor," a special three-part series dedicated to the opportunities, challenges, and future of the skilled trades in Montana's tribal communities.

Throughout this series, we'll take a closer look at:

🔹 Prevailing Wage — Understanding how prevailing wage laws impact projects, workers, and tribal economies.

🔹 Apprenticeship Opportunities on Montana Reservations — Exploring pathways into high-demand, family-supporting careers through union and industry apprenticeship programs.

🔹 Education on Montana's Tribal Reservations — Highlighting workforce development, career and technical education, and the partnerships helping prepare the next generation of Native tradespeople.

The future of Montana's workforce includes the strength, talent, and leadership of our tribal nations. This series is about sharing knowledge, creating opportunities, and highlighting the people and programs making a difference across Indian Country.

Follow Blue Collar News as we bring these important conversations to communities across Montana.

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The conversation continues from the 2026 Montana AFL-CIO COPE Convention as our panelists take a deeper dive into what it will take to ensure workers have a seat at the table as AI and data center development accelerate across the country.

In Part 2, Adam Haight of LiUNA Local 1686, Kate French of the BlueGreen Alliance, and John Mataya of the AFL-CIO discuss the policies, partnerships, and workforce investments needed to create family-sustaining union careers while protecting workers and local communities. 

Don't miss the conclusion of this important discussion about building a worker-centered economy—one where innovation, good union jobs, and strong communities grow together.

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What does it take to run for public office, and why should working people consider stepping into leadership?

In this episode of Blue Collar News, Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small sits down with Curtis Schomer for an honest conversation about running for political office. Together, they discuss the rewards and challenges of campaigning, the realities of serving in elected office, and why it is critical to have leaders who understand the needs of working families.

Jason and Curtis explore the pros and cons of seeking public office, from balancing family and career commitments to building community support and navigating the political process. They also discuss how union members and working people bring valuable real-world experience to policymaking and why having their voices represented at every level of government matters.

Whether you've ever considered running for office or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to serve your community, this episode offers valuable insight into leadership, public service, and the importance of working people having a seat at the decision-making table.

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What does the rise of artificial intelligence and data centers mean for Montana's workers? In this special episode of Blue Collar News, recorded at the 2026 Montana AFL-CIO COPE Convention, we bring you an insightful panel discussion on "Data Centers, AI & the Future of a Worker-Centered Economy."

Moderated during the convention, the conversation features Adam Haight of LiUNA Local 1686, Kate French of the BlueGreen Alliance, and John Mataya of the AFL-CIO. Together, they explore how the rapid expansion of AI and data centers is transforming our economy, creating new opportunities, and presenting new challenges for working families.

From good-paying union jobs and workforce development to energy infrastructure, community investment, and ensuring workers have a voice in shaping the future, this discussion highlights how the labor movement can lead the way in building an economy where technological innovation benefits everyone—not just corporations.

Tune in to hear how labor leaders are working to make sure the future of AI is a future that puts workers first.

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In Part Two of Blue Collar News, Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small continues the conversation with Jay Reardon, taking a deeper dive into apprenticeship utilization and why registered apprenticeships remain one of the strongest pathways to a successful career in Montana.

Jason and Jay discuss the value apprentices bring to employers, communities, and the state's economy while highlighting how apprenticeship programs provide workers with the opportunity to earn a paycheck while they learn a skilled trade. They also explore how these careers offer family-supporting wages, excellent benefits, and long-term financial stability—creating life-changing opportunities for Montanans looking to build a better future without taking on overwhelming student debt.

Whether you're a student, someone considering a career change, or an employer looking to invest in the next generation of skilled workers, this episode showcases why apprenticeships are a win for everyone and a cornerstone of Montana's workforce.

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On this episode of Blue Collar News, Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small sits down with Jay Reardon to discuss Montana legislation that is creating opportunities for incarcerated individuals through skilled trades education and workforce training.

They explore how the legislation expands partnerships with the Montana Department of Corrections to provide inmates with hands-on training in the construction and skilled trades, helping them develop valuable career skills before reentering their communities. Jason and Jay discuss how these programs can strengthen Montana's workforce, reduce recidivism, and create pathways to family-supporting union careers while addressing the state's growing demand for skilled workers.

Tune in for an important conversation about second chances, workforce development, and how investing in people benefits workers, employers, and communities across Montana.

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What happens when several longtime grocery workers is let go, and questions arise about whether union contract protections were followed?

Join Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small for a LIVE episode of Blue Collar News as he sits down with Terrie Trettenback to discuss the recent situation involving a worker at Hometown Harvest Foods (formerly Everyday IGA). Together, they explore why collective bargaining agreements matter, the role unions play in ensuring due process and workplace fairness, and what these situations can mean for workers, their families, and the communities they serve.

This conversation goes beyond one workplace—it's about the importance of standing up for workers' rights, honoring negotiated contracts, and ensuring every worker has a voice on the job.

Tune in for an important discussion on solidarity, accountability, and why union representation continues to matter for working Montanans.

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