Ray joined the RMI Titanium clerical union in 1989 and within three years became the shop steward for local 2155-7. He quickly rose through the ranks, moving to unit griever after two years, and then assuming the unit presidency in 1997 which he held for eight terms. In 2021, Ray reassumed the position of unit griever and has been using this role to guide a new generation of union leadership.

     In addition to his work with the clerical union, he also held the position of Vice President of the local from 2006 to 2009. Ray has served as VP of Trumbull County for the Mahoning/Trumbull AFL-CIO from 2012 to 2018, and was also a delegate there for fifteen years.