On September 22, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART-TD) made an unprecedented announcement that its leadership was throwing its support behind the proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger. In return for the union’s support, UP and NS officials have stated that all SMART-TD members working in train and yardmaster service would be guaranteed a job for the length of their careers following the possible merger. It is the first time in history that a union has backed a major Class I merger of this size. 

In a press release, SMART-TD officials stated they believed that the guarantee not to furlough any members would reduce service disruptions following a consolidation, something that has haunted past mergers (including some of UP’s previous acquisitions). 

“This is a proud day for our members,” said SMART-TD President Jeremy R. Ferguson. “For generations, railroaders have worried about what mergers might mean for their jobs and whether or not they would be given the opportunity to reach retirement on the rail. Today, we can say with confidence that the biggest railroad and the biggest rail union in America are breaking new ground. We are protecting jobs, protecting families, and protecting the future of the U.S. supply chain.” 

UP CEO Jim Vena said that the deal with SMART-TD confirmed his previous assertion that no unionized employees would lose their jobs as a result of the merger. “When we announced our intent to create the first transcontinental railroad in America, I made a promise to protect the jobs of all unionized employees. Those who have a job when the merger is approved will continue to have one,” Vena said.