The IAM is mourning the passing of Tony Padilla, TCU/IAM’s retired Assistant National Legislative Director.
Padilla enjoyed a remarkable 43-year career in the rail industry, retiring in December 2009.
His journey began in February 1967 as a General Clerk Freight and Passenger Agent with Southern Pacific Railroad. Padilla continued his dedication to the industry as an Amtrak Passenger Agent in both San Antonio and Austin, Texas.
He became a member of TCU Local 2503 in 1967 and transferred to Local 2512 in 1995. Padilla served as TCU Texas State Legislative Representative before working full-time for the TCU Grand Lodge. In 1991, he was named TCU Assistant National Legislative Director.
Padilla was a force for TCU/IAM on Capitol Hill. His relentless advocacy, passion, and ability to work with any and all elected officials made him one of the most successful labor lobbyists in DC.
“It was often said that Tony Padilla made TCU/IAM ‘punch above its weight’ in Washington,” said TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea. “All of our members and retirees are better off – their retirement protected – because of the work Tony did. We lost a legend today.”
“TCU/IAM members benefited from Tony’s relationships and knowledge on Capitol Hill,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “We truly appreciate the work he did for the membership. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family.”
Padilla’s efforts included keeping Amtrak funded and solvent during turbulent political times, and he helped spearhead legislative efforts to push through Railroad Retirement reform legislation that gave railroaders their “60, 30” retirement.
“Despite Tony retiring several years ago, across Washington DC people still to this day hear ‘TCU/IAM’ and think Tony Padilla,” said TCU/IAM National Legislative Director Dave Arouca. “Tony was a friend and a mentor to so many in DC, including me.”
Padilla’s willingness to mentor others across Capitol Hill and the labor movement left a sizeable legacy for those who came after.
The entire labor movement will remember and honor Padilla.
“When I first arrived on Capitol Hill over 20 years ago, I didn’t know anything about the rail industry,” said IAM National Legislative and Political Director Hasan Solomon. “Tony Padilla, my brother, taught me everything I needed to know to be an effective lobbyist for the IAM and TCU/IAM.”
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