How ATU’s Joint Industry Councils Are Driving Change
ATU continues to make a strategic push to strengthen labor solidarity and collective bargaining efforts across private transit employers. Led by International President John Costa, a series of pivotal Joint Industry Council (JIC) meetings brought together Local leaders and ATU International staff to tackle the pressing issues facing transit workers today.
Traditionally, JICs serve as collaborative forums where ATU Locals representing workers at the same private employer coordinate strategy, share intelligence, and build unified bargaining positions. Under Costa’s direction, these councils have become more vital than ever, acting as the backbone of ATU’s efforts to secure better contracts, protect worker rights, and confront employers who undervalue their employees.
JIC Coordination Pressures Private Companies
Costa convened in-person sessions of the Multi-Employer JIC, Transdev JIC, MV Transportation JIC, and the Student Transportation JIC via Zoom. Joined by International Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo and International Secretary Treasurer Ken Kirk, Costa opened by commending Local leaders for their resilience. “The work of our JICs is instrumental in advancing the rights and welfare of our members at these private transit companies through the power of collective bargaining,” said Costa about the vital work of our JICs. “Increased coordination across councils enhances pressure on companies that have long treated our members with disrespect.”
The gatherings featured comprehensive updates on the state of negotiations with private employers, current legislative developments affecting transit workers, and the latest corporate developments that impact working conditions. Local leaders had the chance to share insights on ongoing contract talks and strategize collective responses to challenges like stalled negotiations or workplace grievances.
These meetings reflect a broader vision for how the ATU is adapting to the realities of private sector organizing. By empowering JICs, the ATU is building collective strength that transcends individual Locals and taps into the shared power of workers across regions. In an era when private transit companies increasingly rely on attempting to divide unions, this kind of solidarity offers an effective counterbalance, promising stronger contracts, fairer treatment, and a more unified future for transit workers everywhere.