Deputy National Safety and Legislative Director Jared Cassity issued a stark reminder of the stakes we face as union members.
“Sitting in D.C., I watch how the politics affects this country. Our issues are not political. Our issues are not Republican. They’re not Democratic. They’re either right or they’re wrong.
“In this [union], there are no political adversaries … in this union, our issues are our issues, and they are worth fighting for. There is not a single person in this room that cannot sympathize or empathize or understand that no one deserves to wake up in the morning and wonder, is today going to be the day that I’m verbally assaulted while I’m doing my job?
I“s someone going to lay hands on me, spit on me, piss on me, stab me, shoot me? None of you are going to stand by that. Every single one of you will fight for that.
“No one should deserve to wake up and wonder “is today the day that my carrier is going to fail to provide me a safe workspace? Is today the day that I lose limbs? That I suffer a career or life altering injury? Is today the day that I don’t make it home?
“That’s not Republican. That’s not Democrat. That is union. And all of you should stand united when we talk about these issues. Do not let someone else drive a wedge between you. We move forward together.
“We move forward as a union. We have got to fight, and that’s what we’re going to do.”
Cassity’s rallying cry is essential for all SMART-TD members to hear and understand. Our lives and livelihoods require us to rise above partisan politics to protect our collective power.
Cassity delivered his remarks during his acceptance speech at the SMART-TD convention on August 11, 2024.
The SMART Education Department held its new “Right to Work and Member Retention” class in Detroit, Mich., during the week of September 30th. The class focused on the open shop movement, the impact of so-called right to work, strategies for improving membership retention, and the critical role that union leaders play in maintaining local union power.
Twenty-three participants from across our union worked together to problem solve and create action plans for their respective locals. The class also took time to celebrate the repeal of Michigan’s right-to-work law and the role that Michigan Locals 7 (Lansing), 80 and 292 (both Detroit) played in that process.
“Everyone’s hard work will help strengthen our union!” said SMART International Instructor Richard Mangelsdorf.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our union has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to supporting one another in times of crisis. Thanks to your generous contributions, SMART and our general president, Michael Coleman, have established three distribution centers in North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. These centers provide immediate assistance to our members as they work to recover from the devastating effects of the hurricane.
We can only offer this vital help due to the remarkable donations made by our members. It is your compassion and willingness to stand together that enable us to provide much-needed relief to those hit by this storm.
As we move forward, let us continue to support each other in our recovery efforts. The resilience and generosity displayed by our members is a shining example that it is not rhetoric when we refer to each other as sister and brother. SMART-TD is a family. We can, do, and always will have each other’s back.
October 4:
We would like to express our gratitude to Brian Killough, general chairman of GO-513 and the members he represents for their donation of $12,000 to the relief fund.
October 3:
A special thank you goes out to Ken Laugel from the UTU Insurance Association (UTUIA).
As SMART-TD’s in-house insurance company, UTUIA has consistently prioritized the well-being of our members. President Jeremy Ferguson expressed his gratitude, stating: “Their sizeable donation to the Disaster Relief Fund is consistent with their mission of protecting our members every day. They have helped thousands of our people in the worst moments of their lives with their policies, but stepping up in this moment for our people, whose lives have been turned upside down by this hurricane, goes above and beyond the call of duty. I can’t thank Ken and everyone at the UTUIA enough.”
October 2:
We extend a heartfelt thanks to Tommy Gholson and General Committee 898 for their incredibly generous donation, as well as to State Safety and Legislative Directors Clyde Whitaker from Ohio, Louis Costa of California, Jeff Mitchell of Kentucky, Don Roach of Michigan and Adren Crawford of Tennessee, who have all stepped up in support of our members during this difficult time. Additionally, General Chairpersons Rick Lee of GCA 049, Brian Killough of GCA 513 and Luke Edington of GO 953 have made significant contributions that will aid in our recovery efforts.
Highlighting the spirit of service within our union, we recognize State Safety and Legislative Director Adren Crawford from Tennessee, along with Brother Jason Caldwell and other members of Local 1162 from Erwin, TN. They have gone above and beyond by not only donating funds but also actively securing generators and distributing them to affected members of Local 1162. Their hands-on approach exemplifies the solidarity that defines SMART-TD.
October 4, 2024: The SMART Transportation Division proudly congratulates SMART Railroad, Mechanical and Engineering Division (MD) members for their achievement in ratifying collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) with three major rail carriers: BNSF, CSXT and Norfolk Southern.
The newly ratified agreements will provide SMART-MD members with healthcare stability and annual wage increases through December 31, 2029. The five-year agreements guarantee an average general wage increase of 3.5% per year and include improvements in paid vacation and health and welfare benefits, maintaining a consistent employee monthly cost-share contribution.
John McCloskey, General Committee 2 directing general chairperson, remarked on the significance of these agreements, stating, “GWIs of 18.8% compounded are almost unheard of in the freight industry, especially on a voluntary basis without concessions. I appreciate BNSF, CSX and NS negotiating with SMART-MD in good faith.”
SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson told SMART News, “This is a milestone that underscores the strength and determination of SMART members in securing fair labor agreements. Congratulations to our brothers and sisters in the Mechanical Division!”
In a strong show of unity, members voted in favor of the CBAs, with results reflecting significant support: 69% for BNSF, 68% for CSXT, and 62% for Norfolk Southern. This outcome highlights the commitment of SMART-MD’s members to engage in the ratification process and ensure their voices are heard.
SMART-MD Director Peter Kennedy expressed gratitude to the members who participated, stating, “Thank you to the members that took the time to educate themselves about their agreement, and that participated in the ratification process. We are glad to have resolved negotiations with these major freight railroads. The remaining rail carriers need to follow the pattern that has been established by BNSF, CSXT and NS.”
SMART General President Michael Coleman also praised the outcome, noting, “The members have passed their verdict on the agreements with BNSF, CSX-T and NS, with more than 60% voting in favor for each carrier. I am grateful for the determination and advocacy of the SMART-MD negotiating team, and I appreciate the leadership at BNSF, CSX-T and NS for resolving the next round of national negotiations without dragging out the bargaining process for years.”
As we celebrate this victory, the SMART Transportation Division reaffirms its dedication to supporting all SMART divisions in their pursuit of equitable labor agreements. These successful ratifications serve as a powerful reminder that together, we can achieve meaningful progress and secure a better future for all rail industry workers.
The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation (SMART) Railroad, Mechanical and Engineering Department (MD) members employed on BNSF, CSX-T and Norfolk Southern Railway have voted to ratify their respective collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). Members voted in favor of the CBAs by 69% (BNSF), 68% (CSX) and 62% (NS).
With these agreements ratified, SMART-MD members employed by BNSF, CSX-T and NS have secured healthcare stability and annual wage increases through December 31, 2029.
The CBAs on each respective rail carrier are essentially identical, consisting of a five-year term that provides for annual general wage increases (GWI) that average out to 3.5% per year, improvements for paid vacation, as well as improvements to health and welfare benefits without changing the employee monthly cost-share contribution of 15% of the carriers’ monthly payment rate. The CBAs also resulted in the creation of new benefit design for employees that desire to have employee-only coverage under a high deductible health plan at a reduced employee monthly cost-share contribution.
“GWIs of 18.8% compounded are almost unheard of in the freight industry, especially on a voluntary basis without concessions,” said General Committee 2 Directing General Chairperson John McCloskey. “I appreciate BNSF, CSX and NS negotiating with SMART-MD in good faith and allowing us the opportunity to engage with the members throughout the ratification process.”
“Thank you to the members that took the time to educate themselves about their agreement, and that participated in the ratification process. We are glad to have resolved negotiations with these major freight railroads. The remaining rail carriers need to follow the pattern that has been established by BNSF, CSX-T and NS,” added SMART-MD Director Peter Kennedy.
“The members have passed their verdict on the agreements with BNSF, CSX-T and NS, with more than 60% voting in favor for each carrier,” said SMART General President Michael Coleman. “I am grateful for the determination and advocacy of the SMART-MD negotiating team, and I appreciate the leadership at BNSF, CSX-T and NS for resolving the next round of national negotiations without dragging out the bargaining process for years. I am glad these railroads recognized that our members deserve to be compensated fairly with wage increases coming to them in real time, rather than years after the fact.”
The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, and Rail Transportation (SMART) union is announcing a mobilization of members and volunteers to offer assistance to our brothers and sisters in the hurricane recovery effort. If you are a SMART member, including SMART-TD members, and you have been affected by Hurricane Helene, please reach out to your local leadership or text the words:
“CHECK IN” to 67336 (message and data rates may apply).
After sending SMART this text message, you will be contacted by a volunteer.
Looking to donate? Supplies can be sent to one of three SMART mobilization centers:
SMART Local 399, 841 Main Street South, New Ellenton, SC 29809
SMART Local 5, 1446 Bethel Drive, High Point, NC 27260
SMART Local 85, 4830 Mendel Court SW, Atlanta, GA 30336
Every day, thousands of passengers and railroad employees pass through Union Station in Washington D.C., navigating the bustling halls and platforms without a second thought to the quiet, solemn space that resides within.
In a corner of the historic station, a memorial stands to remember the Amtrak employees who lost their lives while working to keep people moving.
Many of our members, including those who work in Union Station daily, might not be aware of this sacred spot. It deserves recognition and reverence from all in the SMART-TD family.
“This memorial is more than just a tribute,” SLD Jackson said. “For me, and for every railroader who takes a moment to reflect on it, it’s a powerful reminder of what we’re fighting for. It’s a symbol of the risks our members face and our commitment to improving safety and working conditions. My goal is to ensure that we never have to add another name to this monument, that no more of our union family members will be killed while on duty.”
The memorial is being updated to include the names of those who have lost their lives since 2018. Brother Jackson is engaging with Amtrak to ensure this important update is made, so the memorial can accurately acknowledge every individual who has sacrificed so much.
Seek out this memorial if you find yourself passing through Union Station.
By taking a moment to visit and pay respects, we honor their memory and reaffirm our commitment to the safety and well-being of all those who work on the railroads. Let it be a reminder of the shared mission and values that unite us in the SMART-TD community and that no matter what working conditions we find ourselves in, we must work safely to benefit our families and our brothers and sisters on our crew.
SMART News would like to thank Brother Matt Tolliver, (Local 1601, Appalachia, Va.) for bringing this memorial to our attention. In addition to serving Local 1601 as Secretary and Treasurer, Brother Tolliver also serves his brothers and sisters in a leadership role with the UTUIA, providing our members with insurance policies that protect them and their families from the unique dangers in our challenging industry.
FORT WORTH, TEXAS – BNSF Railway, one of North America’s leading transportation companies, today announced it has reached tentative, five-year collective bargaining agreements with the SMART-TD railroad union, including the union’s yardmasters (SMART-TD-YDM).
The news marks eight tentative agreements in less than one month’s time, representing more than 15,000 employees and more than 46% of BNSF’s union workforce. The agreements were reached three months before the opening of the next collective bargaining round.
If ratified, the agreements will provide a 3.5% average wage increase per year over the next five years. They will also offer railroaders more vacation earlier in their career and meaningful enhancements to an already robust suite of health care benefits.
“Thank you to our leaders who have worked collaboratively with us to reach these tentative agreements,” said BNSF President & CEO Katie Farmer. “We are proud to be able to give our employees this unprecedented certainty over enhancements to their pay, health care and vacation in advance of the next round. Today’s agreement sets our entire team up for future success in serving our customers while securing jobs for our employees.”
SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson stated, “If ratified by SMART-TD members working for BNSF, this tentative agreement (TA) will increase members’ paychecks by a compounded 18.77% over the next five years. It also offers improvements to their quality of life, and H&W benefit enhancements. I’m proud of our team of BNSF General Chairpersons for the work they did on this agreement on behalf of our members.”
SMART-TD general chairpersons said in a joint statement. “We’re looking forward to presenting this agreement to our members, who will review and vote on whether to approve it.”
SMART-TD is the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART).
The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) released a long-awaited study Sept. 17 examining issues associated with the increasing lengths of freight trains.
Jared Cassity, SMART-TD’s alternate national legislative director, sums up their findings: “The fact that we are seeing a high rate of derailments despite fewer trains underscores the critical risks associated with longer trains. This puts not only our members but also the public in danger.”
This is understood, but that no one is ready to act is a troubling trend.
Fewer trains, same number of derailments
SMART Transportation Division, the largest railroad union in the United States, has also observed that longer trains pose significant risks. We are disappointed that the study doesn’t recommend specific action to address the problem they identified. The safety challenges presented by the lengthening of trains doesn’t require further study. Decisive action is needed.
The study confirms what we have long been saying: The longer the trains get, the greater the risks, and these risks are not being mitigated effectively.
Railroads are holding back data on long trains
Unfortunately, the thoroughness of the NAS report was undermined by a notable lack of data from rail carriers and the Association of American Railroads (AAR). This gap in data collection is disappointing, preventable and entirely predictable.
“It is incredibly frustrating to see the railroad companies and their representatives deliberately withhold crucial data that could have led to a more comprehensive and actionable report,” Cassity stated. “The failure to provide complete information is a clear attempt by these companies to avoid accountability and continue their practices unchecked.”
Meanwhile, it’s the same story from the railroads, as their head mouthpiece repeated the same talking points they habitually roll out.
“Safety is at the center of every decision on the railroad, and train length is no different,” AAR President and CEO Ian Jefferies said. “As operations continue to evolve, railroads are pulling on three key levers — technology, training and infrastructure — to further enhance safety and reliability.”
SMART-TD presses for new train length laws and regulations
We had hoped that the NAS investigation would bridge the gap between information gathering and actionable solutions. Instead, no conclusions about what an appropriate maximum train length should be were drawn from the research.
Meanwhile, AAR labeled the 7,500-foot length — approximately a mile and a half — used by the study as a measuring point as “arbitrary” when defining what constitutes a “long” train.
“The study followed a congressionally defined threshold without uniform agreement on its appropriateness,” they said.
As experts on the ground, our members can shed some light. Longer trains benefit railroad carriers by increasing their operational efficiency and profits. This comes at the expense of quality of life for railroad workers, growing hazards for the public and poorer service for the companies waiting for their shipments. Longer trains contribute to more catastrophic derailments, increased response times for first responders at blocked crossings, and more significant logistical challenges overall.
SMART-TD calls for immediate and decisive action to address the issues associated with long trains. We are engaging with legislators and regulatory bodies who are entrusted with railroad oversight. They have a duty to address these hazards, as we have an obligation to preserve the well-being of railroad workers and the public who are affected by the trains we operate every day.
Carr (left) with fellow SMART Women’s Committee member Annet Del Rosario.
North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) named SMART Local 276 (Victoria, British Columbia) and International Women’s Committee member Amy Carr one of four Tradeswomen Heroes Award-winners in September, noting her leadership, mentorship and ongoing efforts to make a difference in her union — and in the Canadian labour movement.
“Amy Carr is a trailblazing member of our SMART union,” Local 276 declared in its Tradeswomen Heroes nomination letter for Carr.
Carr made history when she joined Local 276 as one of the first women in commercial HVAC and welding systems. Now, she leads the metal fabrication department at Lewis Sheet Metal and devotes her free time to spreading the word about the trade, both as a part-time instructor at Camosun College — where she teaches sheet metal to first-year students — and by promoting her craft to school district programs across Victoria.
“Sister Carr is known for her strong community involvement,” the local wrote. “She joins mentorship programs, visits schools to share her knowledge, and supports not-for-profit groups like HeroWork. She also organizes Local 276’s annual car show, which raises money for our local children’s hospital. In 2018, The B.C. Construction Association gave Sister Carr a leadership award for her great work.”
Alongside mentoring, community service and instructional work, Carr dedicates herself to various committees intended to make the trades more welcoming and inclusive for all. She was a founding member of the B.C. Centre for Women in the Trades, a director at-large for the B.C. Tradeswomen Society and worked with the B.C. Construction Association to create the “Don’t Be a Tool” program.
“Sister Carr’s true strength is her infectious spirit in SMART, mentoring many and paving the way for future tradeswomen. Her current project, a mentorship program with the BC Construction Association, shows her commitment to nurturing talent from all backgrounds,” the local noted.
“[Her] achievements, support and mentorship make her a true Tradeswomen Hero, deserving of the NABTU Tradeswomen Heroes Award,” Local 276 wrote in its nomination.
