National Academy of Arbitrators

The ninth edition of Elkouri & Elkouri: How Arbitration Works is now available, marking a major new edition of a foundational reference in labor arbitration. The new edition is a substantial rewrite of earlier editions, incorporating more recent cases and examining newer theories that have emerged in labor arbitration. NAA member Robert A. Creo served as editor-in-chief. Each chapter was reviewed by at least one NAA member. The NAA recognizes Robert and all the NAA members who contributed their time and expertise to this important work, which continues to serve as a key resource for the labor arbitration community. Congratulations to everyone who helped bring this ninth edition to publication. The ninth edition is available as a PDF to members of the ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gNXhvbZi

Five years ago, the foundation was laid for the Ray Corollary Initiative (RCI). Established in 2021, RCI was created to encourage greater diversity in the selection of arbitrators and other neutrals. Its work includes research, the RCI Pledge, education, partnerships and programs that expand access and opportunity across the dispute resolution field. In 2026, RCI partnered with the National Academy of Arbitrators to host a Next-Gen Neutrals Spotlight at the NAA’s Annual Meeting & Education Conference in Chicago, one example of its ongoing work to broaden opportunity and connections in ADR. NAA members Homer C. La Rue (he, him, his), RCI president; Alan Symonette, treasurer; Sarah Espinosa; and Haydee Rosario, Esq. are also involved in RCI’s work. The NAA congratulates RCI on five years of meaningful work to broaden opportunity and diversity across the dispute resolution field. Learn more: https://raycorollary.org/ NAA diversity initiatives: https://lnkd.in/gYEj5n-w

The NAA’s Region 17, in partnership with the American Arbitration Association (AAA), is hosting a timely discussion on the expectations shaping labor arbitration and how emerging technology, including artificial intelligence, may influence arbitral practice. What Parties Expect From Labor Arbitrators Today: Practical Feedback, Expectations, and the Future of Arbitration will explore what advocates value when selecting arbitrators, expectations for responsiveness and timely awards, and considerations surrounding responsible AI use in arbitral practice. 📅 Oct. 30, 2026 🕚 11 a.m.-noon Central 💻 Online via Zoom Designed for both experienced and newer labor arbitrators, the session offers practical insights into current expectations and the future of the profession. Register to attend: https://lnkd.in/g3PyrrEK #LaborArbitration #Arbitration #NAA

Explore the complexities of workplace discipline and the line between insubordination and other employee conduct in a new article by NAA member Thomas F. Levak published in NAA Corner through Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory US' Vital Law. In “Insubordination: Insolence in All Its Guises,” Tom examines how arbitrators evaluate insubordination cases, from refusing a direct order to abusive behavior toward a supervisor. He also explores the circumstances that can influence disciplinary outcomes, including workplace rules, past practices, safety concerns, unlawful orders and the protections afforded to union representatives. The article offers practical examples and insights into key questions in labor arbitration: When can an employer impose discharge without progressive discipline? When must an employee follow an order and grieve it later? And when might an employee’s conduct warrant a different outcome? Read the article in Wolters Kluwer’s Vital Law: https://lnkd.in/ghzUupRq NAA members can also share their knowledge and perspectives through NAA Corner and Wolters Kluwer’s Vital Law. To learn more about submitting an article, contact Andrea Laiacona Dooley at andrealdooley@gmail.com. #NationalAcademyOfArbitrators #LaborArbitration #LaborRelations

The NAA’s Canadian Region is taking a new approach to regional leadership. A newly established Canadian Region Advisory Board brings together NAA members and representatives from arbitration associations across Canada to help guide the Region’s work and broaden participation. The Arbitrator Associations includes representation from Ontario, Québec, Alberta and British Columbia, along with the current and past Canadian Region chairs and Canadian members of the NAA Board of Governors. The goal is straightforward: bring more voices and perspectives into the Region’s work. The Advisory Board has already contributed to planning September’s Canadian Region Conference, supporting the development of the Canadian Labour Relations Report and helping advance membership recruitment efforts across the country. Read the full review of the Region’s activities and learn more about its work: https://lnkd.in/gc9WdiEK Have questions, suggestions or interest in getting involved? Contact Canadian Region Chair Mark Asbell at mark@asbellresolutions.com.

As a reminder, the NAA New England Chapter, in partnership with the University of Rhode Island’s Office of Strategic Initiatives, will host this year’s 27th Annual Labor Arbitration Conference on Oct. 26, 2026, in Providence, Rhode Island. NAA President Walt De Treux will be among the featured speakers as members of the labor arbitration community gather for a day of discussion, education and conversation on issues affecting the field. The conference offers an opportunity for arbitrators, labor relations professionals, attorneys and others working in the field to connect with colleagues and exchange perspectives. We look forward to seeing you in Providence! Learn more about the event here: https://lnkd.in/gNfaHtNn Register here: https://lnkd.in/gyYvNBHp

The National Academy of Arbitrators recognizes World Day for Decent Work on Oct. 7, an observance that highlights workers’ rights, freedom of association and collective bargaining. Meaningful labor-management dialogue can play an important role in supporting productive workplaces, including through collective bargaining and effective dispute resolution. The NAA’s work in labor arbitration supports these processes by providing education, developing arbitrators and creating opportunities for professionals across the field to exchange knowledge and perspectives.

The NAA’s newest Becoming a Labor Arbitrator (BALA) class begins today with a virtual orientation, followed by four weeks of asynchronous online study and discussion and five days of live online instruction in November.   Presented by the National Academy of Arbitrators, BALA gives attorneys and other qualified professionals with substantial labor-relations experience an opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in labor arbitration through education, practical experience and guidance from experienced arbitrators. The course covers arbitration law and ethics, hearing procedures, evidence, contract interpretation, opinion and award writing, practice building and mock arbitration.   The course is led by Danielle L. Hargrove, Howell Lankford and Arthur Pearlstein, experienced arbitrators and educators who bring extensive experience in labor arbitration, advocacy and dispute resolution to the program. Formerly administered by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), BALA is now presented by the NAA.   Best wishes to the newest BALA class as they begin the program.   Learn more about BALA: naarb.org/bala/

What Would You Do? is a monthly educational program that gives arbitrators an opportunity to discuss challenging questions and scenarios that can arise during a hearing. Moderated by Arnold Zack, each session focuses on situations in which arbitrators may need to make an immediate ruling with little or no time for consultation, research or discussion with peers. The next session is Monday, Oct. 5, from 6-8 p.m. CT via Zoom. The program meets on the first Monday of each month. Join fellow professionals for this unique opportunity to explore challenging hearing scenarios and consider how you would respond. Register today at https://lnkd.in/gWU9j_8U

Whether you’re a longtime member or new to the field, connecting with other NAA members in your region is a great way to build professional relationships, exchange ideas and stay engaged with the labor arbitration community. Find a chapter near you and discover what’s happening in your community by contacting your regional chair: Regional Chairs and Boundaries – NAARB Regional Boundaries: ·       Canada ·       Central Midwest ·       DC/MD/VA ·       Michigan ·       Missouri Valley ·       Mid Atlantic ·       New England ·       New York ·       Northern California ·       Ohio – Kentucky ·       Pacific Northwest ·       Southeast ·       Southern California ·       Southwest Rockies ·       Upstate New York ·       Western PA