Humans of UNAC/UHCP: Matt Piskura, PT
I never saw myself stepping into union leadership—at least not at first. It started with a general sense that organizing was a good idea. Maybe I’m a natural organizer, so I began making calls to folks in my home health group in Hawai‘i.
“I never saw myself stepping into union leadership—at least not at first. It started with a general sense that organizing was a good idea. Maybe I’m a natural organizer, so I began making calls to folks in my home health group in Hawai‘i.
“One conversation led to another, and soon I was asked to join the bargaining team. That was my first time doing something on this scale. Eventually, I became an officer—all from just staying open: open to learning, open to people, open to the idea that we’re part of something bigger.
“Being in a union has taken me out of my professional silo. As a physical therapist, I was in a very specific lane, but through this experience, I’ve connected with people from all kinds of roles and backgrounds. That interconnectedness has been meaningful. It’s helped me grow—not just as a leader, but as a person.
“One of my biggest aha moments came when I joined the AI and technology subcommittee. Sitting with 40 professionals across disciplines, shaping language that affects how business gets done—that was new to me. Watching ideas become clear and effective was powerful.
“But what stood out most was the unity. We had input from every level: management, frontline workers, union reps. That collective strength showed what happens when people come together with a shared goal.
“Doing this work as part of the Hawai‘i delegation is special. We may be small, but we’re strong. We bring a unique spirit to the table—and it matters. So to my fellow members back home, I’m sending a ‘cheehoo, double shaka’ stick-together message. There’s real power in unity. I’m excited to see what comes next.”
—Matthew Piskura, PT, is one of UNAC/UHCP’s members of the Common Issues Committee, which includes union and management representatives bargaining the National Agreement between Kaiser Permanente and the Alliance of Health Care Unions. He is also a member of the bargaining team for the Kaiser Therapists in Hawai‘i.