University of California
UCnet
What are you looking for?

University of California and University Council American Federation of Teachers (UC-AFT) Launch Systemwide Contract Negotiations for the Unit 18 Faculty (IX) Bargaining Unit  

March 9, 2026

Share This Article

The University of California and the University Council – American Federation of Teachers began negotiations on March 5 for a successor collective bargaining agreement for Unit 18 l faculty across the UC system.  

During last week’s bargaining session, the parties passed proposals and counter proposals to establish the Collective Bargaining Ground Rules that will govern Unit 18 successor bargaining sessions. Ground Rules are critical to build trust and establish a foundation of mutual respect and professionalism during negotiations. They govern location, technical requirements for virtual negotiations, how proposals are passed and agreed to, and more. Achieving clear Ground Rules minimizes conflict and paves the way for collaborative and productive bargaining.  

UC-AFT represents approximately 5,265 faculty members in titles including Lecturer, Supervisor of Teacher Education, and Coordinator of Field Work. These faculty members play a significant role in delivering instruction and supporting students’ academic experience across the University of California.  

UC’s focus is on reaching a fair and sustainable agreement that supports high-quality instruction, maintains the established roles and governance structures that define the institution’s academic enterprise, ensures instructional programs are delivered in ways that best serve students, and builds a collaborative and sustainable labor-management relationship that enhances the employee experience.   

The two parties will meet regularly in the coming months to reach a mutually beneficial agreement; the next bargaining session is scheduled for March 19. The current contract expires June 30, 2026.   

Learn how contracts are bargained on UCnet.

Other relevant UC News:

Keep Reading