SMART-TD and Union Pacific Reach Historic Deal Ensuring Job Security and …

In a significant development for the railway industry, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers – Transportation Division (SMART-TD) and Union Pacific Railroad have reached a historic agreement that secures the jobs of thousands of railroad workers. This agreement comes as Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern plan to merge, ensuring job security for SMART-TD members in train and yardmaster service for the entirety of their careers.

This groundbreaking agreement provides job security to railroad employees, guaranteeing that they will not face involuntary furloughs as a result of the merger. This commitment by Union Pacific sets a new standard in American railroading history, offering unprecedented protections that will benefit employees, shippers, and customers alike.

By providing lifetime job security, preferential hiring for affected terminal employees, and a commitment to collaborating on implementing agreements, both SMART-TD and Union Pacific are working together to provide stability and peace of mind to railroaders and their families for years to come. SMART-TD President Jeremy R. Ferguson expressed pride in this groundbreaking agreement, noting that it addresses long-standing concerns that railroaders have harbored regarding job security during times of change within the industry.

Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena and Norfolk Southern CEO Mark George both underscored their commitments to protecting jobs in light of the merger, ensuring that unionized employees will retain their positions once the merger is approved. This agreement represents a significant step in supporting workers and the future of the U.S. supply chain, showcasing a model of cooperation between labor and management on a large scale.

The collaboration between SMART-TD, Union Pacific, and Norfolk Southern exemplifies a commitment to economic progress and worker well-being, setting a new standard for the industry. This agreement solidifies the importance of mutual trust and collaboration between unions and management in creating an inclusive and secure work environment for all employees.

With this landmark agreement in place, SMART-TD, Union Pacific, and Norfolk Southern are leading by example and shaping a brighter future for railway workers, customers, and the economy as a whole. Through their dedication to protecting jobs and ensuring a stable future for employees, these entities are paving the way for a stronger, more resilient railway industry in the years to come.