More than a year after voting to organize into the Transportation Communications Union (TCU/IAM), the largest union on Amtrak, union representatives for Drummac employees who work on the Amtrak Auto Train Property in Lorton, Va., held an informational picket on Feb. 19, 2025, to highlight Drummac management’s stall tactics during negotiations.
SEE PHOTOS FROM THE INFORMATIONAL PICKET
The informational picket took place in two shifts in the morning and afternoon, aligning with the arrival and departure of the Auto Train, one of Amtrak’s highest revenue-producing routes. The picket drew attention from Virginia commuters and Amtrak customers as the union representatives handed out informational cards about the workers’ frustrations over stalled contract negotiations.
“These dedicated workers in Lorton brave weather conditions throughout the year to keep these trains running on schedule,” said TCU/IAM Organizing Director Sal Rodriguez. “Drummac’s continued delays in fair negotiations do not give our members the respect and dignity they deserve. Now is the time for the company to show their appreciation and negotiate a fair contract.”
While Drummac workers were busy working, loading and unloading cars in the below-freezing temperature, TCU/IAM representatives held signs calling for fair and competitive wages that match industry standards, reasonable scheduling and pay for all required work, and improved benefits and working conditions.
“Their offers on wages have not been fair,” said Matt Hollis, TCU/IAM’s Lead Negotiator. “All these workers are asking for is a fair wage – something most Americans have recently won. It’s time Drummac recognizes their worth with a contract that provides the wages they deserve.”
Drummac employees are currently paid half the industry standard and have gone over a year without a raise.
With strong participation and community support, Drummac workers will not give up until they secure the fair contract they deserve.
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