Horseheads, N.Y., Sept. 9, 2024 — The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) applauds Siemens’ announcement to invest approximately $60 million in a state-of-the-art 300,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Horseheads, NY. This new facility will play a critical role in producing what will become the fastest railcars in the U.S., capable of reaching speeds up to 220 miles per hour.
Following U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck’s relentless advocacy for Upstate NY, Siemens Mobility has heeded his and the IAM’s calls and will build its first-of-its-kind high-speed rail manufacturing facility in Horseheads, N.Y. This will create approximately 300 new good-paying jobs producing America’s fastest high-speed trainset, the American Pioneer 220, for Brightline West, which will connect Las Vegas to Southern California. Brightline West is expected to create over 900 union jobs, with approximately 500 being represented by the Transportation Communications Union (TCU/IAM).
This major Siemens investment is set to bolster the economy of Upstate New York, creating high-quality union jobs that will drive economic growth for generations. Earlier this year, the IAM announced a Voluntary Recognition Agreement with Siemens Mobility to represent employees who will build state-of-the-art train sets for the Brightline West high-speed rail project connecting Las Vegas and Southern California.
“We would like to thank Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for his leadership in bringing the manufacturing of Brightline Train Sets to New York and ensuring that skilled IAM members were at the forefront of this project,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “This partnership is more than just a moment. It’s a new chapter for the future of rail transportation, with good union jobs creating lasting economic benefits for generations to come. The IAM looks forward to continuing its strong partnership with Siemens, ensuring that this project sets the standard for excellence in manufacturing while also supporting the community and enhancing the livelihoods of union members.”
The new facility represents a pivotal moment for the U.S. rail industry, positioning the region as a hub for cutting-edge transportation solutions. As part of this groundbreaking initiative, IAM members will contribute to the design and assembly of the fastest and most advanced railcars ever built in the U.S.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.
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