NABET CWA 43 OFFICERS

President: Matthew Phillips

Matthew Phillips is the President of NABET-CWA Local 43, representing
professionals across the Detroit market. He began his career at WJBK Fox 2 in August 2004 as a news photojournalist and video editor, building a strong foundation in the industry while actively advocating for his colleagues.

Matthew’s union leadership formally began in 2021, when he joined the Local 43 Executive Board after filling a vacant seat. At that time, he also stepped into the role of Social Media Specialist for the local, producing videos and digital content not only for Local 43, but for other unions throughout the Metro Detroit area. His work highlighted solidarity efforts, labor actions, and community engagement, helping strengthen connections across the broader labor movement.

In 2024, Matthew was elected Vice President, succeeding Tom Carr as he stepped down from the role. Within a year, then-President Dorethea Brown-Maxey retired from WDIV and accepted a position at the national headquarters as a Staff Representative. Following her departure, Matthew assumed the role of President of Local 43.

As President, Matthew is focused on strengthening solidarity, protecting members’ rights, modernizing communication strategies, and ensuring Local 43 continues to adapt and thrive in an evolving media landscape.

Vice President: Tom Carr

With over a quarter-century of experience on both sides of the lens and the bargaining table, Tom Carr serves as the Vice President of NABET-CWA Local 43. A staple of the Detroit media landscape, Tom joined Fox 2 (WJBK) in 1998, where he continues to serve as a dedicated photojournalist and editor.

Tom’s commitment to union advocacy began shortly after his arrival in Detroit; he joined the Local 43 Executive Board in 2000. Over the last two decades, he has become a fixture of the union’s leadership structure, known for his deep institutional knowledge and a pragmatic approach to representation. His meticulous attention to protocol and long-standing history with the Local earned him the affectionate nickname "Old Business" among his colleagues.

Currently serving his second stint as Vice President, Tom brings a steady hand to the Local’s operations. His dual perspective as a working professional in the shop and a veteran union officer ensures that the interests of the membership remain at the forefront of every discussion.

Treasurer: Kent Culpert


Kent Culpert has served as the Treasurer of NABET-CWA Local 43 for 12 years, bringing invaluable experience to the executive board with his 13-year tenure. Kent's dedication to the union extends back to 1996 when he joined as a member, starting his journey with WDIV-TV before transitioning to WJBK-TV. Born into a union family, Kent embodies the values of solidarity and commitment to fair labor practices. As Treasurer, he continues to advocate for the rights and welfare of NABET-CWA members, ensuring financial accountability within the organization. Kent is a photojournalist and edit coordinator for WJBK Fox 2 Detroit.

Secretary: Lisa Dickinson

With an impressive tenure spanning nearly four decades, Lisa is a dedicated and experienced technician at WJBK Fox 2. Throughout her 39 years at the station, she has played a pivotal role in the control room, expertly handling tasks as a Technical Director (TD), Audio Operator, and Master Control Operator.

Lisa's commitment to excellence and her deep technical expertise have made her an invaluable asset to the WJBK Fox 2 team. Her contributions ensure smooth broadcasts and high-quality audio-visual presentations, underpinning the station's reputation for reliability and professionalism.

Beyond her technical responsibilities, Lisa is also a passionate advocate for her colleagues. She currently serves as the Secretary of NABET-CWA Local 43, where her leadership and dedication to workers' rights are evident. Her involvement with the union spans many years, having previously held the position of Vice President and been an active member of the Executive Board since the late 1990s.

Lisa's career reflects a blend of technical proficiency, steadfast dedication, and strong advocacy for her peers. Her long-standing service and commitment to both her craft and her colleagues underscore her significant impact on WJBK Fox 2 and the broader broadcasting community.

  • Kathy Rogers

    EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER

    WJBK CHIEF STEWARD

  • Mark Baur

    EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER

    WDIV CHIEF STEWARD

  • Andrew Ballantine

    EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER

  • Brett Dickie

    EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER

  • Hans Ihlenfeldt

    EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER