Internal NFFE News
November 21, 2024
Today, the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) is proud to announce that Jacob Pannell of NFFE Local 181 will serve as the new Business Representative and Organizer (BR/Organizer) for NFFE’s Eastern territory.
NFFE began looking to hire two Business Representatives/Organizers starting August 26, 2024 and interviewed several candidates over the course of many weeks. Pannell was offered the position earlier this week, and he will officially start his role at NFFE BR/Organizer on December 2, 2024.
Pannell is originally from the backcountry of Idaho and most recently worked in behavioral health specialty with the Department of Veteran Affairs in Lewiston, Idaho. After serving in the U.S. Army, Pannell worked as a local firefighter before starting his career as a federal employee with the VA. As Vice President of NFFE Local 181, Pannell represented his local in negotiations, grievances, arbitrations, and EEO cases. He also attended several training courses at the Winpisinger Center and traveled to Capitol Hill to lobby Congress on issues facing the VA and veterans.
“Jake has proven to be a strong unionist, capable of achieving success for his local across a wide array of union activities,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. “His experience in many different fields will lend itself well to understanding the needs of the members in several agencies he will represent as a NFFE BR/Organizer. I can’t wait for Jake to get started in this role and to see what he can do to make a difference for the members of this union.”
“I’m really excited about the chance to work as a Business Representative for NFFE,” said Pannell “This role gives me the opportunity to bring all my experiences—whether it’s from the Army, firefighting, the VA, or my time with NFFE—into helping our union grow stronger.”
“For me, leadership is all about supporting others, and I’m passionate about helping locals and individuals become the best representatives they can be. I want to provide the tools, education, and encouragement they need to stand up for our brothers and sisters. This is about building a stronger union together and making sure everyone feels supported and valued.”