ATU Learns from the World’s Most Advanced Transit Network in Japan
International President John Costa led a high-level ATU delegation to Tokyo, Japan, to study one of the world’s most advanced public transportation systems. Part of Costa’s global innovation and automation tour, the visit explored how technology, sustainability, and automation are reshaping transit, and what that means for workers.
“The ATU has always embraced innovation, but never at the expense of good union jobs,” said Costa. “We’re here to learn, prepare, and ensure the voice of transit workers leads the conversation about automation.”
Joining Costa were ATU Canada President John Di Nino, Local 689-Washington, DC President Raymond Jackson, Recording Secretary and Organizing Director Donnie Wilson, Health and Welfare Specialist Bertha Villatoro, and ATU International staff. Partnering with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and Japanese Urban Transport Unions, the team exchanged strategies on automation and labor protections.
From riding the Keikyu Line and Tokyo’s Yurikamome Automated Light Rail to observing driverless bus trials and hydrogen fuel cell fleets, the delegation witnessed how technology integrates with safety systems and impacts the workforce. Meetings with Japanese union leaders highlighted workers’ perspectives on automation and job security.
Costa underscored that innovation must include workers, not replace them. “No technology can replace the skill, dedication, and experience transit workers bring every day,” he said. The Tokyo visit strengthened our global solidarity and reaffirmed the ATU’s mission to ensure modernization goes hand in hand with worker respect, protection, and empowerment. Arigatō Japan.