CSX, mechanical unions praise 'progressive' labor partnership

CSX Corp. and two leading mechanical unions announced a landmark partnership that will enhance benefits for CSX employees and improve productivity, the Class I announced yesterday.

The agreement is between the railroad and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART). Under the tentative agreement — which is being submitted for ratification — members of the IAM and SMART unions will be able to perform a variety of assigned work beyond the traditional boundaries of craft or union affiliation.

Covered employees will see their pay increase through an hourly skill differential, enhanced ability to retain employment, benefits and connection to railroad retirement, and an ability to perform additional locomotive rebuild work in-house with CSX employees.

The agreement builds on a similar work-sharing structure implemented at the company's Huntington Locomotive Shop in 2013.

"I applaud our union partners for working so closely with us through the lengthy discussions that began in 2013 at our Huntington Locomotive Shop," said Lisa Mancini, CSX senior vice president and chief administrative officer.

Union officials also praised the agreement.

"This agreement enhances job opportunities, job security and our members' ability to transfer across the system, while also improving training and supporting skill development,” said SMART General President Joseph Sellers Jr.

Added IAM President and Directing General Chairman Jeff Doerr: "This tentative agreement provides new options for CSX employees, giving them more control of their careers, by expanding on the efficiencies gained from our previous partnership at Huntington, W.V., while providing CSX with the tools they need to have the most efficient locomotive maintenance team in the industry."