Joining IBT not mandatory for representation
Here's a bit of info that some might not be aware of:
The 1108 is what is known as an "agency" shop, not a "closed" or "union" shop. This means that even if the 1108 is voted in at Flex, you are not individually required to join the Teamsters, but by law, you still receive all the same rights and privileges as members, except you can't run for offices.
I am not recommending that you not join; it seems pointless to be just a "hanger-on" and not help your fellow pilots out. However, if you have a co-worker who refuses to send in his or her card because he or she is stuck on the whole "Teamsters are evil" myth, pointing that fact out might help nudge that person in the right direction.
Here at Options we have pilots who have started out as non members then have gotten in hot water with the Company and had their bacon saved by Union representation. Afterward, when they realized how those "evil" Teamster stewards and/or lawyers saved their jobs, they decided to join and become productive members of the 1108 community.
Wishing the best for all of us
FA