Tennessee AFL-CIO

Suzanne Coile, Director

Technical Assistance Program

Suzanne's labor career began in 1973 when she joined the United Garment Workers of America Local 392 in the sewing factory where she worked. During her years there, she was elected steward, executive vice-president and delegate to the Knoxville-Oak Ridge Central Labor Council. She was elected to the CLC Executive Board and as a Trustee and Volunteer in Politics Director.
After nearly sixteen years in a factory, Suzanne changed careers. She worked for several years in the offices of two Building Trades local unions. During this time, she joined and became an officer of the Office and Professional Employees International Union Local 144.
Suzanne began working for the Tennessee AFL-CIO in 1987as the East Tennessee Labor Coordinator for the Technical Assistance Program. She has the prime responsibility for establishing and maintaining liasion and working relationships with union, the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Employment Security and other private and public organizations. She is responsible ofr the direction, planning and supervision of all phases and operations of this program.
Suzanne received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labor Studies from the George Meany Center in 1997. During her time at the Center, she served as Secretary/Treasurer and the President of the Student Union.
In addition to her job and family responsibilities, Suzanne remains involved in political and community service activities. She has served on several boards relating to each interest and in 1996 was selected as the Knoxville-Oak Ridge Area CLC and United Way Labor Volunteer of the Year.