About Us
The Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA) represents more than 6,000 support staff at the University of Alberta. Our members’ work reflects the full diversity of the institution—building service workers, library personnel, administrative and clerical staff, tradespeople, researchers, lab assistants, computer technicians, nurses, and engineers. Their contributions are what keep the university operating every day.
Learn More About NASA
For a more detailed introduction to our work, mission, and services, you can explore the Welcome to Your Union booklet.
How NASA Operates
NASA is an open, democratic organization governed directly by its members, who elect an Executive Board. Under this elected leadership, NASA staff oversee the daily functions of the union. In addition, union stewards located across campus are available to support members and provide assistance with workplace concerns.
Collective Bargaining & Representation
NASA negotiates a collective agreement with the University of Alberta, which is then ratified by members. Once in effect, NASA ensures that the university upholds the agreement and treats employees fairly. All employees covered under the collective agreement contribute monthly dues, though choosing to become an active member remains a personal decision.
Mission
To improve the economic, social and working conditions of our members through representation and advocacy, and to contribute to the improvement of those conditions in society.
Vision
A better future for ourselves and others
Our History
NASA has formally existed since 1978, but the roots of the association stretch much further back. On July 30, 1997, NASA marked the 50th anniversary of the movement that initiated what would become today’s organization. This history matters because, although support staff rarely receive the public recognition they deserve for the essential work they perform—whether in administration, maintenance, research, or countless other roles—understanding our past helps clarify why NASA exists and how it continues to shape the university community.
By reflecting on the efforts of those who came before us, we can recognize the continuity of support staff advocacy at the University of Alberta and make informed decisions about the future direction of the association.
A significant portion of NASA’s historical summary is based on research conducted by Edmonton writer Earl Stephanson, whose work provided the foundation for a concise, “unofficial” history prepared for representatives and members. As noted by Peter Matilainen in 1997, this history is a personal interpretation and cannot fully capture the entire story. NASA continues to gather archival materials, and contributions to this effort are welcomed and appreciated. Additional historical information about NASA can also be found on this archived copy of the University of Alberta’s Centenary website.
Frequently Asked Questions
I pay union dues, so doesn’t that make me a member of NASA?
Since all support staff at the University of Alberta benefit from the terms and protections of the collective agreement and receive equal representation from NASA, provincial labour law requires all support staff to pay tax-deductible dues in order to cover the costs of operating the union. However, membership is voluntary, so only those who choose to join are considered members. Becoming a NASA member is free and all that is required is to complete an application for membership on the become a member page and submit it to NASA.
Why should I become a member?
Becoming a member gives you a voice in how NASA operates. Among the benefits of being a member are the ability to attend all NASA membership meetings, vote for Executive Officers, participate on Union committees, and vote on ratifying the Collective Agreement. In addition, NASA communicates regularly with all active members regarding a variety of issues.
What happens to the dues that are collected by the Union?
Your dues are used to finance the operation of NASA. NASA’s Executive takes a proposed budget to the Annual General Meeting each year for membership approval. First and foremost, dues are used to ensure that the members are provided with union representation. NASA hires Labour Relations Officers (LROs) to give assistance to members in any issue arising out of their employment. In addition, NASA has a complement of support staff to assist the LROs and the Executive in meeting their obligations to the members. Dues also pay for bargaining, membership meetings, office rent, advocacy campaigns, member education, the NASA Breakfast, Seasonal Celebration, etc. The ultimate goal is to provide service to you, the members.
How do I get involved in NASA?
There are a number of areas where active members can get involved with NASA. You can become a union steward, you can serve on committees – whenever there are committee opportunities NASA issues a call to the membership and posts on our volunteer opportunities page. NASA also appoints members to sit on certain University committees – e.g., Board of Governors, Senate, GFC, etc. In addition, many members volunteer to help out with the annual NASA Breakfast. In short, opportunities for involvement are many and varied.
I used to be an “active” member of NASA but left employment with the University of Alberta. I am back now; do I still need to sign up as a member again?
Yes, you do. Leaving employment with the University of Alberta effectively ends your membership with NASA. If you become re-employed, you need to reapply for “active” membership.
Who do I contact if I need help from NASA?
You can call the NASA general line at (780) 439-3181 and your call will be directed to the person who can best assist you. If you receive a voice mail prompt, it will provide you with the names and extensions of the staff working in the office. You can also send an email to nasa@nasaunion.ca as well as visit the contact us page.