Kickstarting the Conversation: Day One of Our Transportation Conference

Building a Better Tomorrow: Day 1 Highlights from the Transportation Conference

The "Building a Better Tomorrow" Transportation Conference kicked off today in Las Vegas, setting a clear and ambitious agenda for the future of our industry. Day 1 was packed with vital discussions and a firm commitment to action on several key fronts:

Empowering Workers and Securing Fair Contracts

A top priority identified on Day 1 is to win organizing campaigns at Delta and JetBlue, giving a stronger voice to thousands of workers. Simultaneously, we're committed to securing industry-leading contracts at American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, pushing for better wages and working conditions across the board.

Prioritizing Safety and Well-being

Today, the focus was strongly on protecting our frontline. We're fighting for federal protections against assault for airport customer service agents, ensuring these heroes can work safely. We also emphasized the urgent need for the full and effective implementation of the FAA Reauthorization Act to improve safety for all airline workers.

Cultivating Future Leaders

Looking to the long-term, Day 1 saw strong support for establishing young worker committees and a mentorship program. This initiative is crucial for developing and empowering the next generation of union leaders to carry our work forward.

Advocating for Justice

Our commitment extends beyond specific industry concerns. Today, we reaffirmed our resolve to protest the administration's attacks on federal workers and immigration policies, standing in solidarity with all workers affected by unjust policies.

This is just the beginning! Day 1 has laid a strong foundation, and we look forward to continuing these critical discussions and planning for a better tomorrow throughout the rest of the conference here in Las Vegas.

Union Strong: Growth, Funds, and Future Plans

The union just shared exciting news about its growth and financial health. Membership has jumped from 300,000 pre-COVID to 563,000, including 343,000 active dues-paying members and 20,000 retirees.

Financially, things look great! The general fund holds $128.5 million, and the strike fund has $98.1 million, even after a recent $48 million strike payout. A $30 million organizing fund, now $29.3 million thanks to smart investments, is ready to back future campaigns.

Looking ahead, the union is working on a new dues structure and planning upcoming conferences, including a women's conference in Chicago and a young machinist conference. The future looks bright!

Collective Action Drives Progress

We underscored the strength of collective action across the transportation industry. We're seeing significant wins, from airline negotiations setting new wage standards at American, United, and Southwest, to our rail division securing early contract negotiations and wage increases while fighting challenges like Precision Scheduled Railroading.

Our organizing efforts are strong, bringing in nearly 1,000 new workers through eight recent campaigns, proving the tangible benefits of union membership. We also discussed ongoing challenges like anti-labor appointees and funding issues, reminding us to remain vigilant and engaged.