Project labor agreements, or PLAs, represent one of the greatest achievements of the unionized construction industry, benefiting taxpayers, contractors, union members AND nonunion workers alike. PLAs have been lifting working families into the middle class for generations — e [...]
2025 marks 100 years since the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP) was founded, the first African American labor union in the United States. As we wrap up Black History Month, SMART-TD is proud to share the story of these trailblazers who left a powerful legacy that still impacts our members today.
SMART-TD is raising concerns over CSX's petition to use a new Trip Optimizer Air Brake Control system, which will control freight train operations from start to stop. While CSX claims the system will reduce fuel consumption and emissions, SMART-TD believes these claims are little more than a smokescreen for CSX’s true intentions. Read on to find out what they really want and what we can do to stop them.
As 2025 gets fully underway, bringing with it a new set of challenges across the United States and Canada, the SMART Education Department continues to offer classes to SMART members and officers — helping local unions better represent members, and strengthening our union. The [...]
Howard Edmonds began a railroading legacy. During his 37-year career, he set an example for his son and grandson, who mourn his January 28 passing and look ahead to their own futures on the rails. Read on to learn more about what started this unexpected family tradition.
“We’re seeing growth like we’ve never seen before,” said SMART Director of Organizing Jason Benson during a recent interview. In more than 25 years of union membership, Benson couldn’t have dreamed of experiencing anything quite like the last five years. Domestic infra [...]
Two weeks ago, a mentor in CSX’s peer training program was notified that his position was being cut due to lower revenue after a rough quarter. He's not the only one. While the railroad may save some money, new hires will likely feel the impact of this decision. Read on to learn more about which aspects of training are most affected and why this is more than just a program for the mentors.
A federal rule proposed to address heat injuries and illness doesn’t work for railroaders. Read on to see how SMART-TD let OSHA know that you deserve protection, too.
We're excited to share that the newest version of the SMART Union Mobile App is here! From bug fixes to a more user-friendly design, read on to see all of the latest updates and download the app if you haven't done so already!