A recent survey shows 83% of Chicagoans praise the professionalism and reliability of Metra transit conductors and ticket collectors. The survey also highlights public concern for increased security, with strong support for more law enforcement presence to ensure the safety of both passengers and employees.
There is only one month left to book your hotel room for the 2025 Dallas Regional Training Seminar. Attendees have until February 8 to reserve a room at the discounted SMART rate. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity for training and professional development! RTS seminars improve the success rates of our officers in appeals and claims and help officers of all levels learn to confront the challenges of today’s labor environment with confidence. Register today!
Thursday, January 23, President Ferguson, all TD Rail Vice Presidents and several General Chairpersons will present our case for a fair, more sustainable agreement as detailed by our members to the National Railway Labor Conference (NRLC). Read on to see our key priorities, meet the negotiating team and to keep up with other important details.
With a career spanning over four decades, Brother Albert Buford “Sonny” Woodall dedicated much of his life to advocating for railroad workers, especially our Louisiana members. His relentless commitment to improving safety and increasing the respect given to his fellow workers is the hallmark of his legacy.
Brother Ron Sabol (Local 1447) was recently sworn in to serve as a member of the Mercer County Advisory Council on Special Transportation. One of the Council’s main priorities is to look for federal funding to help seniors, students, and those who are disabled better traverse the New Jersey county.
New hires at Local 1706 recently learned what happens when solidarity is put into action. From achieving critical wins at the bargaining table, to seeing what it means to be a part of the SMART-TD union family, this experience is a reminder of the strength that comes from the transformative power of organized labor.
Whether it’s through food and toy drives in Illinois or a bike drive in Tennessee, SMART-TD locals are stepping up to ensure that those who might need a little extra help in their communities are able to experience the joy of the holidays. During this season of giving, they’re showing what it truly means to be a part of the SMART-TD union family.
After spending four decades representing workers, SMART-TD’s General Counsel Kevin Brodar is retiring at the end of the year. From reflecting on why he chose to practice labor law, to the impact he hopes that he had on SMART-TD members, Brodar looks back at a legal career that’s been centered on helping people.
GP Coleman's holiday message to SMART members connects our principles with this special time of year: "The holiday season means different things to different people. But at its core, I believe it’s about our common humanity. As union members, that is one of our core values; the idea that every working person deserves safety, fair pay, a secure retirement and a life with dignity, and that we will organize together to win those rights."
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of SMART-TD member and Union Pacific Conductor Phillip Araujo. As recently reported, he and his engineer, Clay Burt, lost their lives when their train collided with a tractor-trailer in Pecos City, Texas. Brother Ryan Monts of BLET Division 212 has started a GoFundMe account to support the families of Araujo and Brother Burt.
