BLET’s Verna succeeds Tolman as VP, national legislative rep

The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) appointed Vincent Verna as the next vice president and national legislative representative, effective Nov. 5. 

Verna will succeed John Tolman, who is retiring after a 50-year career in railroading.

Tolman joined BLET in 1980, and since then has held several positions in the BLE International and BLET National Division Office, including education and training coordinator, safety task force coordinator, chief of staff and political director. 

Over the past 14 years as VP and national legislative representative, Tolman's accomplishments helped improve the quality of life and working conditions for BLET members and U.S. railroaders, BLET officials said in a press release.

Tolman's office has helped introduce legislation across at state and local levels, including the recent passage of two-person crew bills in several states, union officials said.

Verna has served as regulatory affairs director since 2011. He joined BLET in 1995, and has served in various positions including BLET Division 28 chairman and legislative representative.