12-year Teamster Ian Sabio gives it his all - both at work and in his union. 

Ian Sabio exudes Teamsters pride. You can see it in his work ethic, his union involvement, and how he represents his co-workers as shop steward at the Safeway liquor distribution center in Kent. You even see it written on the ball cap he sports in the warehouse.

Trailing behind Ian as he zips around on a pallet jack picking orders, you quickly understand how hard this man works. He brings the same sense of purpose to our union's political program, where he's lobbied for pro-worker laws in Olympia, served on our political advisory committee, and canvassed for Local 117-endorsed candidates. 

We caught up with Ian at our October membership meeting and talked about what it means to be a Teamster.

What do you like best about your job?

I love the people I work with. That’s what motivates me. As a shop steward, I do my best to help them with their issues. I also love to serve the customers. I make sure I build the pallets good so they’re easy to stack and no one gets hurt.

How does it feel to be a Teamster?

I’m proud to be a Teamster. Not all workers have the same rights we do. My previous job was non-union. It’s made a big difference for me and my family – salary-wise, health wise, and with our pension. The Union is the best thing that’s happened to me.

You were a part of the bargaining committee for the new Safeway contract. What challenges did you face?

We had a tough issue between the grocery and variety sides of the house. It was hard for us to fix what management had messed up. It was a case where not everyone was going to be completely happy. But we worked together, and we were fair about it. In the end, we got a great contract. As a union member, we really have to stick together because that’s how we win. It’s one for all and all for one.

How have you liked getting involved in our Union’s political program?

We went door-to-door for Kate Kruller who was running for mayor of Tukwila. I was pretty nervous at first – you never know what to expect. I also went to Olympia to try and pass unemployment insurance for striking workers. That’s one of my favorite bills. I like being part of these things because when we win, it not only benefits union members but all workers.

Is there one particular issue that’s important to you?

One of the big things for me is how we are going to take care of homeless people in our state. I feel especially bad when you have people who want to work but can’t get a job. I do what I can to help them out.

What do you tell your co-workers who say they aren’t planning to vote in the election?

I tell them: If they don’t vote, they can’t complain about the outcome.

What do you like to do when you're not running around the warehouse?

I like vacations and spending time with my family. That’s one of the things I like about being union: I know when I get my time off. We just went to Cancun. It was great and family-friendly. Next year, we might go to Cabo. I like the all-inclusive aspect - a place to stay, plane, drinks, and food. You just have to remember to control the drinks! It’s the best way to save some dollars and enjoy the beaches and sunsets.

Ian (c) is all smiles with his kids Ari (r) and Skye (r) at our membership meeting on October 17.