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Alumni
From loading ships to lifting voices: Labour Studies alumnus bridges experience and education for workers' rights
Inspired by her experiences working as a longshore worker for two decades, Jessica Isbister decided to pursue her undergraduate degree at Simon Fraser University's Labour Studies Program so that she could make a meaningful impact advancing workers' rights in the industry.
Her involvement with her union piqued Isbister's interest in organizing and advocacy. As an undergraduate student, Isbister completed a major in Labour Studies, an extended minor in Sociology, and certificates in Worker's Rights and Social Justice—all of which has enriched her understanding of the complex issues shaping the lives of workers and the future of work. Now, she is continuing her studies at SFU in a Geography master's program, with her research focused on women dock workers on the West Coast of North America.
In 2022 while attending SFU, Isbister was elected as Third Vice-President of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Canada office, which operates as the exclusive bargaining agent for over 7,200 men and women throughout the province, and has represented the working people of British Columbia since 1948. She continues to work at ILWU to this day, focused on organizing and advocating for safer, inclusive workplaces. She was also elected in 2024 as the International Transport Workers Federation Docker Section Women’s Transport Worker Representative.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO RETURN TO SCHOOL AS A MATURE STUDENT?
Prior to attending SFU I studied at Kwantlen College. I took a 20-year gap between SFU and Kwantlen, during which I had three children and worked as a dock worker on the West Coast of BC. As a longshore worker I did physical labour, checked cargo, and worked as a shipboard crane operator. A few years before attending SFU, I had become more involved with my union, taking on various roles in safety, training, and on my union executive board. Through my union, I completed the Labour College of Canada program, which inspired me to return to school.
What drew you to study Labour Studies at SFU?
My decision to pursue a degree in Labour Studies stems from decades as a worker and a card-carrying union member. Over my lifetime, I have witnessed the erosion of worker power and wanted to gain more tools to fight for workers' rights. After Labour College, I was eager to learn more about the struggles of the labour movement globally and the structures that seek to control and oppress workers.
In the last ten years I stepped up to serve in various union positions advocating for workers' rights. The time defending workers inspired me to deepen my understanding of labour issues, especially at the intersection of worker rights and gender.
Raised in a strong union family, I have always understood the power of the collective for the betterment of living and working conditions. My union background from my home and work life melded nicely with the Labour Studies Program.
How did the program prepare you for the challenges of your profession?
The Labour Studies Program deepened my understanding of the challenges facing workers, the shared struggles of workers and the global structures of oppression, and how I can work within my union and community to fight for better working conditions.
Through my studies, I have been able to connect my personal experiences with theory and real-world struggles. Pursuing a Labour Studies degree has strengthened my ability to create meaningful change for workers locally and globally. Every new concept I encounter fuels my passion for justice and reaffirms my belief in collective action as the most powerful force for positive change.
Were there any unexpected insights that you gained from the program?
Throughout my studies, I was continually surprised at the new learnings I gained from applying theory to my experiences at work and in the union. Reflecting on my personal experiences gave me insight that I would not have gained otherwise.
My favourite Labour Studies classes are LBST 311: Labour and the Environment and LBST 310: The Politics of Labour because these courses effectively connect workers to broad social issues. Both classes drive change and challenge power dynamics.
WHY DO YOU THINK LABOUR STUDIES IS AN IMPORTANT SUBJECT FOR STUDENTS TO KNOW ABOUT?
Labour studies are essential for all students to learn to navigate their way as workers. As workers' rights continue to be eroded and precarious work becomes the norm, these students will benefit from understanding better the capitalist and neoliberal policies that shape their working lives.
Pursuing a Labour Studies degree has strengthened my ability to create meaningful change for workers locally and globally.
Do you have any advice for those considering going back to school?
As a mature student, I had so much life experience to lean on when considering the lessons from all my classes. It gave me the opportunity to reflect on and contrast my experiences through the lens of academia.
I do know several other union women who are heading back to school. It's never too late to follow a dream.