News Archive
A Century of Labor History for the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters
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.
CSX Threatens Engineers’ Jobs with New “Zero-Zero” Autopilot Technology
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.
SMART Education Department classes bring members together to strengthen our union
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 [...]
Legacy: Edmonds Family Mourns a Loss While Celebrating a Future on the Rails
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.
“Organizing is our lifeblood:” Benson details the role every member plays in strengthening SMART
“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 [...]
UPDATE: Arrangements Announced for Brother Steve Bryant’s Celebration of Life
UPDATE: Arrangements announced for the Celebration of Life for Local Chairperson from 1518, Steve Bryant.
Cuts to CSX Peer Training Leave New Hires Without Dedicated Mentors
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.