Labor Training for Central Ohio

For Union Members and the Public

Building labor knowledge in Columbus and beyond.

Elected Officials

Learn how to craft labor friendly policy across all sectors.

Current Unions

Training on everything from political advocacy to running a meeting.

Organizing

Tools and resources to help organize your workplace.

Advocates

Information for advocates about supporting the labor movement.

Building a Better Central Ohio

Training for a Stronger Community in Labor

At COLT CO, we believe that knowledge is the foundation of progress. Our training programs are designed to build understanding, foster cooperation, and equip both union members and the broader community with the tools to advance social and economic justice.

COLT CO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We rely on the generosity of supporters like you to advance our mission of education, empowerment, and community engagement. Please consider making a donation to help us continue this vital work.

We Offer:

Legislative and Policy Education

Inform elected officials and decision-makers about the labor movement’s role in shaping vibrant communities.

Internal Training for Union Members

Strengthen skills, grow leadership, and foster solidarity.

Organizing Training for New Unions

Equip new and emerging unions with the skills and strategies needed to build strong, sustainable worker-led movements.

External Training for the Community

Promote understanding of labor issues and empower civic participation.

Bridging the Gap

Our training programs create a space for dialogue, learning, and shared action. By investing in education and outreach, we’re helping to build a community where working families thrive and labor’s voice is heard. Through our partnerships with local leaders, community organizations, and engaged citizens, we foster conversations that bridge divides and drive meaningful change. Whether it’s through workshops for union members, policy briefings for elected officials, or community forums that highlight the value of solidarity, COLT CO is committed to ensuring that labor’s story is part of the broader narrative of progress and opportunity in Central Ohio.

Labor 101: Unions

In person training at the Central Ohio Labor Council offices in Whitehall. Participants will learn about unions and what they do, labor history, and the role of the AFL-CIO.

More Details

The Labor 101: Unions course will cover the labor movement in broad strokes, and is designed to make participants comfortable interacting with labor leaders. Anyone may attend, but this course is a requirement for endoresement by the Central Ohio Labor Council of the AFL-CIO. This interactive course is built in Kahoot! so participants will need an electronic device (cell phone, tablet, laptop, etc). The course modules are:

  • Introduction to Unions
  • Labor’s History
  • Concepts in Labor
  • Role of the AFL-CIO
  • Being Pro-Union

Attendees will participate interactively throughout the course.

Labor 201: Public Education

In person training at the Central Ohio Labor Council offices in Whitehall. Participants will learn about specific topics in the public education sector including local, state, and federal policy and funding.

More Details

Currently under development.

Local 101: Union Structure and Meetings

In person training at the Central Ohio Labor Council offices in Whitehall. Participants will learn local union structure and rules of order for meetings, specifically Robert’s Rules of Order.

More Details

Currently under development.