Kon'nichiwa from Japan, where ATU International President John Costa is on the ground in Tokyo, taking a close look at one of the most advanced public transit systems in the world. This visit is part of his transportation innovation and automation tour, aimed at understanding how emerging technologies, including automation, are reshaping transit operations and the future of our industry.
Today, the ATU delegation met with the International Transport Federation affiliates from Japanese Urban Transport Unions. The group had a lengthy discussion about the similarities and differences of the workforce and transit in both the U.S., Canada, and Japan, and how to move forward as a united front in a global capacity.
From driverless trains to integrated mobility hubs, Tokyo offers a glimpse into what’s ahead for transit systems worldwide. President Costa’s goal is clear. We need to ensure ATU members are front and center in shaping the future, not left behind by it.
“The ATU has always embraced innovation, but never at the expense of good union jobs,” Costa said. “We’re here to learn, to prepare, and to make sure the voice of transit workers leads the conversation about automation.”
Joining Costa as part of the ATU delegation were ATU Canada President John Di Nino, Local 689-Washington, DC, President Raymond Jackson, Recording Secretary and Organizing Director Donnie Wilson, and Health and Welfare/Member Affairs and Satisfaction Specialist Bertha Villatoro whose DC Metro members are facing the threat of automation, as well as ATU’s Director of JIC’s and Collective Bargaining John Lyons and Director of Strategic Resources Andrew Gena.
Stay tuned for more updates from the tour as ATU continues to fight for a safe, reliable, and worker-powered transit future. Tomorrow, the delegation will experience Japan’s automated transit system firsthand.