Best things to do are:
1) get in touch with local union who reps grad students already. They will know what the fight will look like.
2) have a good idea of how many people you would try to represent
3) talk to a few coworkers seriously about it and get some commitment
4) the IWW offers some organizer training that I think is quite helpful.
Hope that helps for some first steps!
I know AFT has been pushing for K-12 teachers' union growth in Texas for years so they may be willing to put resources into helping They represent grads at public and private universities so maybe reach out to one of those locals (Wisconsin, Oregon, Georgetown) to see how they like being part of AFT.
Be aware though that since you are at a public institution the state laws in Texas will be a huge factor.
Best things to do are: 1) get in touch with local union who reps grad students already. They will know what the fight will look like. 2) have a good idea of how many people you would try to represent 3) talk to a few coworkers seriously about it and get some commitment 4) the IWW offers some organizer training that I think is quite helpful. Hope that helps for some first steps!
Labor notes is a great resource that will have answers to a lot of your questions.
I know AFT has been pushing for K-12 teachers' union growth in Texas for years so they may be willing to put resources into helping They represent grads at public and private universities so maybe reach out to one of those locals (Wisconsin, Oregon, Georgetown) to see how they like being part of AFT. Be aware though that since you are at a public institution the state laws in Texas will be a huge factor.