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NTEU Chapter 159 (CBP Dulles) led the way in bringing a state-of-the-art breakroom to Virginia’s Dulles International Airport, where officers now have a quiet space to unwind and enjoy a cup of coffee.
"I started throwing around the idea of a ‘high-end’ coffee station in our breakroom,” said Chapter 159 President Ken Scudder. “I wanted to save employees some money and at the same time, have a space to bring supervisors and officers to build a better sense of community at work.”
After raising the idea in a casual conversation with a supervisor, Scudder learned about similar improvements made at other CBP offices. And from there, he went to work.
The breakroom company, Monumental Markets, came to survey the breakroom and assured Scudder they could keep prices competitive with other vendors in the airport. When he learned the upgrade would be at no cost to the chapter, Scudder took his idea directly to the port director, who was immediately on board. Scudder then spent hours of off-duty time making necessary phone calls and overseeing the installation.
Working at an airport means employees can’t easily leave for breaks and, as any traveler could tell you, the food options are often pricey. This breakroom provides a smart convenience system, with automated checkout, a latte machine, refillable water bottle machines and new refrigerators, all paid for by the contractor or management. The new breakroom is so impressive that CBP broadcasted nationwide on its internal TV system.
And most importantly, it’s a massive improvement to the lives of the employees at Dulles.
“The market has been a huge success in the first month of operation.,” said Scudder. “We have sold over 500 cups of coffee during that time, which has saved our members money. Plus, it’s a place for management and members come together for a quick snack during down times.”
Chapter President Kenneth Scudder and Executive Vice-President Lalita Polisetty, instrumental in creating positive change at their port.