Recently at IAM Local 325, Union Pacific Railroad brought in contractors to perform Machinist work at the Jenkes Shop in North Little Rock, Arkansas. After a three year fight that resulted in two arbitration awards in favor of the Union, the Carrier has finally settled the dispute by bringing the work back in house, removing contractors from the property, bulletining a new Machinist position, and paying out $175,000 in claims to the Machinists on the Jenkes Shop roster.
This victory started at the local level. A huge thank you goes out to Local 325 Chairman Robert Roush for enforcing the agreement, staying engaged throughout the process, and working closely with District 19 leadership every step of the way. We also want to recognize APDGC Kenny Krause and General Chairman Heath Jacobs for their work and commitment during this fight.
Victories like this prove one thing clearly: Union Contracts Pay. Strong agreements only matter when members and local leadership are willing to enforce them. The IAM Union continues to invest in developing strong local leadership and a knowledgeable rank and file through one of the only full time union training schools in the labor movement. That commitment is helping build a stronger organization capable of defending our work, protecting our agreements, and winning real results for our members.
