Staff Roster

Derrick’s journey in the labor movement began with his early involvement in grassroots campaigns and fervent efforts to empower workers within CWA District 6. With a keen understanding of the challenges faced by workers in an ever-evolving job landscape, he championed the need for dynamic strategies that address the aspirations and concerns of CWA members.

With an extensive background in labor relations and advocacy, Derrick has consistently demonstrated his ability to navigate complex negotiations, forge meaningful partnerships, and amplify the voices of workers.  His visionary leadership has ushered in a new era of innovation, embracing technology and social media to connect with a diverse membership and engage them in vital discussions.

Derrick’s commitment to building an inclusive and united workforce is evident in his relentless efforts to bridge gaps and promote diversity within CWA District 6. He recognizes that unity is the cornerstone of the labor movement’s strength, and he tirelessly works to ensure that every worker’s voice is heard and respected.

Under his guidance, CWA District 6 has witnessed remarkable growth in membership, influence, and impact. His strategic initiatives have fortified the District’s presence both within the labor community and on the national stage, solidifying its reputation as a force to be reckoned with in advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and equitable treatment.

Derrick’s approachable demeanor, exceptional communication skills, and ability to foster collaboration have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, fellow leaders, and members alike. His leadership philosophy revolves around the belief that the power of collective action is the driving force behind positive change, and he tirelessly works to empower each member to realize their potential within the union.

Recently, on July 11, 2023, he was elected as Vice President of CWA District 6, and he continues to steer the organization toward a future that is marked by progress, unity, and a tireless commitment to the well-being of workers. His legacy is one of passion, dedication, and a deep belief in the transformative potential of organized labor.

He has served in many capacities from Legislative, Organizing, and Political Director throughout his 17 years, leading the union’s political program in Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas and Arkansas. CWA is one of America's largest and most diverse unions, representing workers in the communications and information industries, news media, airlines, broadcast, cable television, public service, higher education, healthcare, manufacturing, and tech industries.

Derrick is a union organizer at heart and believes that our workplaces are one of the only places left in America where people from different backgrounds, gender, and orientation have an opportunity to build relationships and trust with each other.  He believes that the strength of the labor movement comes from investing in member education that helps build their working class analysis, strengthen their organizing and leadership skills, and empowers them to take collective action at work and within their communities. In the last 10 years, Derrick has worked to build long term political capacity in the state by aligning labor unions and community organizations in Texas, running some of the largest Independent Expenditures that focus on infrequent voters of color.  

Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, Derrick holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Texas at San Antonio. He now lives in Austin, Texas.

Billy began his career with AT&T in Lee's Summit, MO in 1994. After more than a decade of the Company insisting Billy towards a management position, having been a fourth generation Union worker, he knew that wasn't the path meant for him at that time. He got involved with Local 6450 as a Steward, Chief Steward, Secretary/Treasurer (elected), and President (elected twice). In 2015, Billy left his Presidency to become a Campaign Lead for CWA and helped fight back and defeat right to work in Missouri. In 2018, he moved to Austin, TX and became a Staff Representative, as he was very familiar with all sides of the triangle. His career experience made Billy the most crucial fit, allowing him continue to fight for members rights. 

In July, 2023 newly elected Vice-President Osobase requested Billy to become his Assistant, in which he accepted. He currently resides in Kyle, TX with his wife Patricia and youngest Daughter. They have three additional children and two grandchildren who all reside in Missouri and Kansas. 

Jason Vellmer started his career with SBC in 2000 as a Network Center Technician in St. Louis, MO.  He served as Vice President-ASI in Local 6310 and later in Local 6300, until his appointment to the position of Staff Representative.  He also served as a Steward, Mobilization Chair, Legislative Chair, Community Services Chair, MPLC Executive Vice President, CWA St. Louis City Council Legislative Coordinator, United Way Campaign Organizer, Jobs with Justice Sustaining Member, and North County Labor Club Board Member.  Jason comes from a union background.  His grandfather, James Luetkemeyer, served as a Steward for CWA Local 6310.  Jason attended college at ITT Technical Institute where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Electronic and Telecommunications Engineering and, upon graduation, was awarded Salutatorian.  Jason gives a special thanks to everyone he served with on the 6310, 6320, and 6300 Executive Boards, and for the support he received in achieving his goals.  He is strongly committed to the members of CWA and rebuilding the Labor Movement.  Jason lives in the Kansas City area with his wife, Danielle, and kids; Caleb, Jacob, and Isabella.  Jason was promoted to Administrative Director effective June 2022.

Angela Tumlinson is a stalwart employee of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) District 6 family, with a remarkable 26+ years and is one of the longest serving employees within CWA District 6.  She is dedicated to advancing the union’s mission and supporting its members.  Angela’s status as one of the most senior employees not only reflects her longevity with CWA, but also serves as a testament to her enduring dedication to the labor movement and the members she tirelessly supports.

Angela embarked on her career with CWA District 6 Dallas in 1998, when she joined as a Secretary I in the Dallas Staff office.  Her role may have been behind the scenes, but her passion for the labor movement and her dedication to the cause quickly became evident to her colleagues and superiors. 

In 2000, Angela transferred to CWA District 6 Austin where she was quickly promoted to Secretary II.  

In 2011, Angela continued to be rewarded with a promotion to the role of Administrative Secretary to former D6 Vice President Claude Cummings Jr. 

In 2023, following CWA National elections Angela continued her support role under the new leadership of Vice President Derrick Osobase.

One of the key factors contributing to Angela’s long and successful career has been the guidance and mentorship she received from some of the best in the field.  Her fortune in having strong mentors has not only shaped her professional development, but has also allowed her to excel in various roles and contribute significantly to the union’s work.

Angela’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, mentorship, and a deep passion for the cause.  Her commitment to CWA District 6 and the labor movement is not only a reflection of her loyalty, but also a testament to the rewarding nature of her work and the influence of those who guided her along the way.

Yolanda Anderson began her journey with AT&T/CWA in 1999 as a CSR, CST, Splicer, and Prem. Tech. Yolanda became a Campaign lead in 2011, and later, was promoted to Senior Campaign Lead in March 2021. In June of 2022 Yolanda was promoted to District Organizing Coordinator in D6. Yolanda has extensive knowledge, experience and training in the organizing arena.  She is very committed to the importance of organizing initiatives and growing the labor movement.  In 2014, Yolanda was assigned to assist with the American Airlines campaign in Dallas, TX which led to a win. She also led and won the DIRECTV and Cricket campaign in Houston, TX.  

Based on her excellent organizing ability, she assisted with numerous organizing campaigns throughout the country such as West Virginia, Iowa, Colorado and Texas. Yolanda assisted and led some of the following campaigns for IHX, APPLE, T-Mobile, Lumen, Maximus, Verizon Wireless and Windstream. Yolanda’s most exciting and historical win was when she led and won the 1st Apple retail store in Oklahoma City, OK on October 14, 2022. She is very dedicated to building lasting relationships with workers. Yolanda also loves spending time with her two young adult sons and currently resides in Houston, Texas.

Cheryl started her career with AT&T Mobility in October 2000 as a temporary employee in the Wichita Falls, Texas call center.  She became a full time employee in February 2001 as a Customer Service Representative.  She spent the next 18 years at the call center as the Chief Steward and 10 plus years as the Chair of the Organizing and Mobilization Committees and a member of the North Texas WRC Committee.  Cheryl was promoted to a Staff Representative in July 2019 in the Austin, Texas office and was assigned to handle all Mobility grievances and arbitrations and WRC committee meetings for the District.
 

Geronimo Guerra is a native of San Antonio, Texas, and a proud graduate of Luther Burbank High School. Following graduation, he entered the workforce and has been a dedicated employee of AT&T for the past 25 years. During this time, he also became a committed member of the Communications Workers of America (CWA). 

Geronimo began his union involvement as a volunteer shop steward, representing members and handling grievances across multiple units. In 2013, encouraged by his peers, he successfully ran for Vice President of CWA Local 6143. He served two three-year terms in that role, with his second term running unopposed. As Vice President, he upheld the CWA Union Triangle: Representation, Mobilization, and Political Action—including formal grievance work at the HR and labor arbitration levels with AT&T. 

In addition to his union work, Geronimo has actively served his community. He was appointed to the Alamo Workforce Development Board, helping connect unemployed residents and recent college graduates to career opportunities in San Antonio and surrounding areas. Since 2020, he has served on the San Antonio Municipal Golf Association Board, advocating for affordable and equitable access to city golf courses and improvements to their infrastructure. In September 2023, he was appointed to the San Antonio Ready to Work Board, where he works to bridge the gap between union apprenticeship programs and a skilled local workforce. 

Geronimo was elected to the San Antonio AFL-CIO Central Labor Council in 2016, where he has represented the interests of all working families in the region, ensuring legislation supports and protects the rights of workers. Since 2020, he has served as President of CWA Local 6143, and in September 2023, he was elected President of the San Antonio Labor Council, AFL-CIO. 

Later in 2023, Geronimo was hired to represent CWA members throughout District 6, which includes union employees in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. His passion for unionism and community service is unwavering. He is a fierce advocate for the middle class and a living wage for all—and he demonstrates that commitment every day through action and the love of his daughters Lauren and Karolina and his grandchildren, Nayeli Grace, and Cecilia Rose.

Born and raised in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Seth Hutchinson got his start in CWA in 2006 as an Apprentice Organizer with the Texas State Employees Union-CWA 6186. Over a 13 year span at TSEU, Seth organized state workers in every region of Texas. He eventually rose to the position of Organizing Coordinator for the local and won election to Vice President, a position he served in for 6 years. In 2019 Seth was brought onto District 6 staff as a Campaign Lead and has since been promoted to Senior Campaign Lead. 

Seth holds a BA in Spanish from the University of Central Arkansas and resides in Austin, Texas with his wife, Julia, and daughter, Mori. 

Trent joined the team in January 2025, but he's no stranger to CWA.

He got his start at AT&T’s San Antonio call center, where he spent three years as a steward and active member of the budget and legislative committee. He was also part of the first round of the district’s political bootcamps, where he found his calling in the movement.

From there, Trent jumped into political organizing, working on several campaigns before spending three years with Education Austin organizing teachers and school staff across Austin ISD. He then spent five years with the Texas Organizing Project, where he helped found their staff union, served as its first president, and led the team through bargaining their first contract.

During his time at TOP, Trent worked closely with CWA on multiple campaigns and is proud to be back where it all started.

Sherry started her career with CWA in September 2015 as a Secretary II in the District 6 Headquarters in Austin, TX.  She learned the instrumental value of a Union fighting tirelessly for its members while she provided clerical support for several Staff Representatives over the years. In August 2023, Sherry was promoted to Secretary III reporting to the Assistant to the Vice President in District 6. 

Sherry and her partner, Donnie, love spending time with their grandson, Garrett.  They also enjoy going fishing as often as possible; especially at the TX coast.  Combined they have 3 adult children, Erica, Alex and Dustin.

Sherron Molina is a Staff Rep with 28 years of Telcom experience having worked for AT&T for 25 years. Sherron gained knowledge of Customer Service of both business and residential service before becoming a Communications Tech and then later an Internet Data Center Technician. Sherron is a voracious reader and loves to travel. 

Chase Odle is a dedicated leader in the telecommunications industry with more than 23 years of service at AT&T. His longstanding career as a full-time Customer Service Technician (CST) has provided him with a deep understanding of the industry and a strong foundation for his leadership within the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

Chase previously served as the President of CWA Local 6503, representing 138 members across AT&T, AT&T Mobility, and DirecTV. In this role, he focused on organizing conversations, increasing union visibility, and fostering meaningful engagement with members. His efforts consistently reflected his passion for protecting workers’ rights and strengthening the labor movement.

Balancing his responsibilities as Local President while maintaining his full-time CST role demonstrated Chase’s exceptional time management, dedication, and commitment to both his coworkers and the broader union membership.

On October 30, 2023, Chase Odle was promoted to the position of CWA Staff Representative, a pivotal role that expands his reach and impact within the union. As a Staff Representative, Chase is responsible for supporting and advising local leadership, assisting with grievance and arbitration processes, coordinating mobilization efforts, and ensuring contract enforcement across multiple bargaining units. He plays a key role in bargaining collective bargaining agreements, helping to negotiate fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for CWA members. Chase serves as a critical liaison between the District and Local Union leadership, providing guidance, resources, and strategic support to advance the goals of the CWA.

Chase’s professional journey reflects a deep-rooted dedication to organizing, leadership development, and ongoing education in union practices. He remains focused on advancing opportunities for workers and building power for the members of CWA through proactive representation, strong contract advocacy, and strategic support.

Since my start of service June 2001, I have served the union as a steward and election committee member in Tulsa, Oklahoma, CWA Local 6012 until relocating in 2012 to Dallas Texas CWA Local 6215 as a job steward, chief steward, legislative committee member, women's committee member, organizing committee member. Mobilization coordinator to Unity @mobility trainer/coordinator since 2014. Served on the bargaining team for mobility 2020 and 2024 contract. I accepted a position as a Campaign Lead May 2024 on the organizing team. I enjoy serving the members and continuing to fight the good fight with growing our union. 

Cindy Thorn is a Secretary II with successful telecommunications experience. Cindy joined CWA in 2017 and specializes in administrative assistant responsibilities for CWA. She is a strong believer in positive thinking in the CWA workplace, Cindy is proud to contribute to improved efficiency and satisfaction for CWA staff and members.

Cindy worked for Verizon (fGTE) at the Telephone Operations HQ (Las Colinas) location and DexMedia (fVerizon) at the Coppell and DFW Airport locations from 1992 to 2016, assisting C Level Officers and Executive Directors.

Born in Oklahoma and raised in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. Cindy is registered on the Dawes Rolls as a Native American Cherokee Indian in Tahlequah, OK and is proud of her family heritage. Cindy has participated in organized charity bicycle rides such as Hotter ‘n Hell and MS-150 withhusband, Rick. She has two amazing grown children, Amy and Wes. She loves to boat, fish and spend time with her grandchildren (Alexa, Andrew, Aiden, Ava and Henry).

Kara Hutchason
CWA Representative
khutchason@cwa-union.org

Kara Hutchason began her career with AT&T in 1998 as a Service Representative in Cape Girardeau MO.  She has been a CWA member in good standing of Local 6316 since the start of her career.  Kara held the positions of Steward, Chief Steward, and for over 5 years Secretary of the Local.  In addition to her Secretary duties Kara was also the Local’s Legislative Coordinator, State and District Legislative Coordinator where her dedication and commitment helped lead the District 6 to their excellent PAF accomplishments.  She also served as Executive Vice-President of the MO Political Legislative Council, Secretary of the Southeast MO Labor Club, and a Delegate to the Southeast MO Central Labor Council.  She also is a sustaining member of Jobs with Justice.  Kara has a strong foundation of the CWA triangle and is deeply committed to ensuring workers in all walks of life have a positive chance at the middle class lifestyle CWA members enjoy.  Kara is married to Ronnie and are the proud parents of daughter Kaiti, and son Cort. 

Gerald began his career with SBC in 1994 as an operator, continued for 20 plus years as a Service Representative and retired as a CAD technician after 28 years. He served as a Chief Steward, member of the Executive Boad, and 4 consecutive terms as President of Local 6507. Gerald was part of the MLI (Minority Leadership Institute) class of 2012. He served three years on the National Civil Rights & Equity Committee, elected to the Southwest Bargaining Committee for 3 terms and served as President of the Arkansas State Council. He is strongly committed to Workers’ rights and ensuring that working people’s voices are heard. 

Gerald is an Army Veteran, having served his country for 10years. He is part of the Veterans Organizing Institute. He currently resides in Little Rock, AR, with his wife Andrette. They have two children Jasmine and Cameron.  

Luke Pavone started his career with AT&T as a Leveraged Service Representative at the Cape Girardeau Call Center in April 2010. He was elected President of CWA Local 6316 in 2015, which he has served until May 2024. During his time as President, he served as a member of the Leveraged Service Representative Committee, AT&T SW/CWA Bargaining Committee for the 2017 Bargaining, President of the Missouri President's Council, trustee for the Southeast Missouri Central Labor Council, steward, and other hats as needed. Luke is a native Chicagoan and relocated to Cape Girardeau several years ago. His dad retired as a union concrete finisher as many in his family have done as well. Luke lives in Cape Girardeau with his wife Andrea, son Dylan, daughter Filomena, and grandson Liam.