This page is being shared by NASA because faculty care deeply about students and about the quality of education at NAIT. We know conversations about labour relations can raise questions or uncertainty, and we want students to have clear, accurate information.
Overview
NASA is working to keep NAITSA executive up to date throughout this process to ensure students are supported and kept informed. While faculty are happy to address course-level academic questions where appropriate, any further questions or concerns about the broader process should be directed to NAITSA, which represents students’ interests and can provide additional guidance.
Strike Vote FAQ
› Why are faculty holding a strike vote?
Faculty are advocating for working and learning conditions that support quality education, including reasonable class sizes, sustainable workloads, and the ability to properly support students.
A strike vote is a way for faculty to signal to the employer that these issues matter and that meaningful progress is needed at the bargaining table. The goal is to reach a fair agreement, not to disrupt students’ education.
› Does a strike vote mean there will be a strike?
No. A strike vote does not mean a strike will happen.
A strike vote gives faculty the ability to take further action only if necessary. In many cases, a strong strike vote actually helps resolve issues without a strike by encouraging serious negotiations.
Job Action or Strike FAQ
› How would students be affected if there were job action?
Faculty understand that uncertainty is stressful for students. If job action were ever to occur, students would receive clear, coordinated information about what to expect.
Faculty care deeply about students and their success, and any decisions are made with the goal of protecting the learning environment in the long term.
› What happens to classes, exams, or assignments?
At this stage, no changes are planned. A strike vote alone does not affect classes, exams, or assignments.
If circumstances were to change in the future, students would be informed clearly and in advance, with guidance from the institution.
› What happens to students on practicums, job placements, or Work-Integrated Learning (WIL)?
Students in practicums, clinicals, job placements, or other work-integrated learning (WIL) activities are a priority.
Many WIL placements are hosted by external partners and may continue even if there is job action. However, faculty involvement in supervision or assessment could be affected depending on the situation.
Faculty and the institution are working to ensure that students in placements receive clear, accurate information and are supported throughout the process. Students will be notified directly if anything changes.
› If there is a strike, will my program or semester be delayed or affected long-term? Will I lose my classes?
Students will not lose their classes. However, the structure of the semester could change depending on the length of any job action, if one were to occur.
In post-secondary education, short disruptions have sometimes led to adjustments to the academic calendar, such as a shortened semester or modified course delivery. In situations where a disruption lasts longer, it is also possible that time may be added to the end of the semester to ensure required learning outcomes are met.
The most important factor is duration. The sooner issues are resolved, the less impact there is on students’ academic progress.
Students will receive clear guidance from NAIT if any changes to the semester are required.
› Who should I talk to if I’m worried or have questions?
Students are encouraged to:
- Speak with your instructors if you have immediate academic concerns
- Reach out to NAITSA if you have additional questions or concerns
- Rely on official communications from NAIT