Aaron Eling serves as MEA Secretary-Treasurer and is seeking re-election. In this role, he has worked to modernize financial systems, strengthen transparency, and expand support for local leaders across the state. Aaron represents MEA on the Michigan Climate Jobs Coalition and serves on the Statewide AI Steering Committee. He is a participant in the Advanced Education Policy Leadership Program and has advocated for educators at both the state and national levels. A member of Region 9, Aaron is committed to responsible stewardship, organizational stability, and ensuring that MEA’s resources reflect member priorities.

Campaign Statement

I am running for re-election as MEA Secretary-Treasurer because this work does not reset every three years, it is continuously growing and evolving.

Over the past three years, I have worked to modernize MEA’s financial systems, improve transparency, and expand resources that support local leaders and members across the state. My focus has been simple: ensure that our budgeting reflects our values.

The role of Secretary-Treasurer is about more than numbers. It is about stewardship. Every decision made in this office impacts members in every region, every local, and every classroom. I have taken that responsibility seriously, working to ensure that dues dollars are managed responsibly and aligned with our long-term sustainability.

In addition to the traditional responsibilities of the office, I have represented MEA in broader leadership spaces. I serve on the Statewide AI Steering Committee, helping shape how artificial intelligence is introduced into Michigan schools in ways that protect students and educators. I represent MEA on the Michigan Climate Jobs Coalition, strengthening partnerships between labor and education. I have also brought MEA’s voice into policy discussions through the Advanced Education Policy Leadership Program.

Consistency matters in a role that touches every part of our union. Trust is built over time. Institutional knowledge strengthens decision-making. Stability allows us to plan strategically rather than reactively.

MEA deserves a Secretary-Treasurer who understands our systems, knows our members, and leads with experience and clarity. I would be honored to continue serving in this role.

[Candidates for MEA offices submit biographies and campaign statements, which are printed verbatim. Elections are held at the MEA Representative Assembly in April.]