Train and engine service employees at the Austin Western Railroad (AWRR) overwhelmingly voted to join the BLET in an election certified by the National Mediation Board in late February. Including this victory, BLET has won 15 representation elections in the past three years.
AWRR is a Watco-owned short line that operates over 181 miles of track between Llano and Giddings, Texas.
BLET National Vice President James Logan, who heads the BLET Organizing Department, said the AWRR workers sought BLET representation to help secure wage improvements, a seniority roster, and discipline protection. Logan welcomed the AWRR members into the Brotherhood and said work will begin immediately to appoint a Grievance Committee and to negotiate an agreement.
Logan led the organizing drive with assistance from BLET Director of Short Lines Luke Myers and Special Representatives Jorge Gomez and Brian Terpening.
If you know someone at a short line railroad who would like help to form a union, please contact the BLET Organizing Department at organizing@ble-t.org.