New Rochelle, N.Y – RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 members employed as food service workers at Chartwells Compass Group at Iona University in New Rochelle New York, and union leadership, have taken a lead in labor negotiations by ratifying a contract with artificial intelligence (AI) protections.
“AI has the potential to impact all of our jobs,” said RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 President Jack Caffey. “That’s why we are making sure we get in front of the changes AI is bringing, so members don’t get hurt and our contracts stay strong.”
With a strong union behind negotiations, the three-year contract delivers unprecedented wage increases, while fully maintaining the members’ excellent health and benefit coverage. In addition, workers secured an increased uniform allowance, a key quality-of-life improvement that reflects the professional value of their work.
The agreement also addressed a growing concern of these 1102 members and every worker in this country. The impact of technology in the workplace. Following the August 2025 opening of a new dining hall featuring AI-powered ordering kiosks and “Just Walk Out” grab-and-go technology, the union saw firsthand how automation can displace experienced staff.
Recognizing this potential threat to the union members at the college, RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 negotiated and secured a critical new contract that protects members from the effects of future technological changes. The union agreement addressed a future concern – Even when jobs are not eliminated, automation can lead to arbitrary reassignments that disrupt seniority and could create difficult working conditions.
The language utilized in the contract codifies seniority protections and addresses future changes in the workplace. By securing safeguards in the agreement, RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 has set a critical standard for union members in the digital age. This labor agreement will provide stability, fairness, and dignity of work for the employees at Iona University.
