Todd Brdak

Todd Brdak is a seasoned maritime labor leader with nearly three decades of experience representing the interests of maritime workers while fostering strong partnerships between labor and management. Since joining the Seafarers International Union (SIU), Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIW), AFL-CIO in 1996, he has served in progressively responsible leadership roles, including Field Representative, Safety Representative, Port Agent, and currently Assistant Vice President.

In his role with the Seafarers International Union, Todd oversees labor relations, negotiates and enforces collective bargaining agreements, represents union members in employment matters, grievance resolution, and pension applications, and manages daily office operations. Throughout his career, he has successfully negotiated contracts that improve wages, benefits, and working conditions for maritime workers while supporting productive relationships with employers across the maritime industry.

In 2022, Todd was appointed Assistant Vice President of the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union, where he leads a national team of Business Representatives, oversees collective bargaining negotiations, and coordinates organizing campaigns for new bargaining units throughout the United States.

A respected leader within Michigan’s maritime community, Todd serves on numerous industry and labor organizations, including the Michigan AFL-CIO, Metro Detroit AFL-CIO, Great Lakes Maritime Task Force, the Southeast Michigan Area Maritime Security Committee, and as Secretary-Treasurer of the Michigan Maritime Trades Port Council. He works collaboratively with industry leaders, labor organizations, and public agencies to strengthen the Great Lakes maritime industry, promote workforce development, and enhance maritime security.

Prior to his career in organized labor, Todd served as a Staff Representative for Congressman David Bonior, where he assisted with constituent services, congressional outreach, and the coordination of community engagement initiatives.

Todd earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science with a concentration in Pre-Law from
Michigan State University after graduating from Anchor Bay High School. Drawing on nearly 30 years of leadership in labor relations, collective bargaining, workforce advocacy, and maritime policy, Todd remains committed to strengthening the maritime industry, supporting its workforce, and advancing initiatives that enhance economic opportunity and quality of life for maritime professionals. His extensive experience and collaborative leadership make him a valuable voice in shaping the future of the Great Lakes maritime industry.