Local 1706 Ratifies New Agreement with Zum Transportation 

New hires at Local 1706 learn what happens when solidarity is put into action. Its former employer, Student Transportation of America (STA), was acquired by Zum Transportation. The members of 1706 transferred to the new ownership and brought their SMART representation with them. Vice President James Sandoval, leading SMART-TD’s Bus Department, immediately communicated to Zum that the union would continue to advocate for their new workers’ rights. This secured a foothold for Local 1706, but it also marked the beginning of an intense negotiation process. 

SMART-TD leadership engages skeptical employees 

Many of Zum’s new employees were unfamiliar with union representation and were skeptical about the value of joining. Tensions ran high, with some openly questioning the need for representation by SMART-TD. 

With contract negotiations scheduled to begin the next day, Sandoval approached three of the most vocal critics and invited them to attend the bargaining session. These individuals agreed to participate, and their presence at the table completely changed the dynamic of the negotiations. 

Solidarity intimidates management at bargaining table

When the group entered the negotiation room, Zum’s management was surprised. The three new operators, outspoken in their opposition to unions the night before, were now sitting side-by-side with our leaders. This attitude shift signaled a unified front at the bargaining table. The new participants also gained firsthand insight into the negotiation process and the critical role that unions (SMART-TD, in particular) play in advocating for their members. 

Initially, Zum presented an offer that fell short — Sandoval and his delegation stood firm and demanded a better deal for our members. 

Standing firm for a successful agreement 

Zum eventually agreed to a contract that secured improved wages, better health and wellness benefits, and significant improvements in overall working conditions. On December 21st the TA, negotiated in part by the union’s former skeptics, was overwhelmingly passed by the members of Local 1706! Their fight and the experienced guidance of VP Sandoval proved to be a winning combination.  

A point of pride for Sandoval, however, was the opportunity to demonstrate the value of the union to those three previously skeptical operators. Over the span of 24 hours, they went from opponents of union membership to full-fledged supporters. Their journey from skepticism to active leaders highlights the power of collective bargaining and its transformative effect.  

“SMART-TD is not only proud to have found them as new members, but we should also be hopeful that we’ve found a new generation of skilled leaders who know how to advocate for the men and women of our craft,” said VP Sandoval.  

“We are stronger together. Be SMART!” 

To kick off the new year and a season of new beginnings for Local 1706, a training for the members was held today.  

General Chairperson Lisa Roby has a good feeling about the future of the local.  

“A lot of people don’t know much about the union,” Roby explained. “They’ve been asking questions, and I think we’re getting much better. This is the strongest we’ve ever been…right now.” 

From last month’s negotiations to the information discussed in today’s training, Sister Roby complimented VP Sandoval’s leadership.  

“James stays on top of everything,” Roby noted. “[The training] came together smoothly, and I’m grateful for the learning that we’re getting.” 

As some new members continue to see what it means to be a part of the SMART-TD union family, Roby has some words of wisdom for them.  

“We are stronger together. Be smart. That’s what I always tell everybody,” Roby said.  

For Local 1706, this experience is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from unity, respect for diverse viewpoints, and the transformative power of organized labor. The agreement represents more than just better pay and benefits: it symbolizes the collective effort of workers coming together to secure a better future for themselves and their families. 

Congratulations to Local 1706 on their victory!