#United States #Atlanta #Norfolk Southern #Collective Bargaining #Railroad Signalmen

Norfolk Southern Reaches Landmark Agreement with Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen

Norfolk Southern Corporation, listed on the New York Stock Exchange as NSC, announced today a significant achievement in labor relations. They have successfully negotiated a five-year collective bargaining agreement with the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS). This agreement is noteworthy as it marks the completion of ratified agreements with 12 out of the 13 unions representing the company's workforce, with only one tentative agreement pending ratification.

Enhancements for Team Members

The newly ratified agreement directly impacts nearly 970 dedicated members of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen who are critical to the operations of Norfolk Southern’s expansive network. The contract outlines substantial enhancements to pay, healthcare provisions, and vacation benefits, demonstrating the company’s commitment to its workforce's wellbeing.

Mark George, President and CEO of Norfolk Southern, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the collaboration with the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, stating, "Our railroaders are the backbone of Norfolk Southern. Their expertise and dedication ensure our operations are safe, efficient, and fluid, day in and day out. This agreement is a step closer to solidifying our commitment to our employees and their promising future."

Wage Increases and Work Rule Changes

Among the highlights of the agreement is an impressive compounded wage increase of 18.8% over the next five years. This significant adjustment is designed to better compensate railroaders for their critical contributions. Moreover, the agreement allows for extended paid vacation days earlier in employees’ careers, a change that stands to enhance work-life balance among the workforce.

Additionally, the agreement introduces several local work rule enhancements aimed at improving working conditions. These include better travel expense reimbursement policies and more flexibility around scheduling for signal construction projects. The emphasis on employee needs demonstrates Norfolk Southern's adaptation to modern labor conditions while prioritizing employee satisfaction and retention.

A Strong Partnership

Michael Baldwin, President of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, voiced the significance of the cooperative relationship that has been established with Norfolk Southern through various safety collaboration programs. He highlighted how these programs have fostered a constructive environment, allowing both parties to reach beneficial agreements that address key concerns, such as wages, healthcare, and work rules most important to their members.

Norfolk Southern's Legacy and Future Commitment

Founded in 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation has a longstanding tradition of safely transporting essential goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, their operations span a vast freight transportation network across 22 states. Norfolk Southern is also at the forefront of sustainability efforts, helping customers avoid approximately 15 million tons of carbon emissions each year by opting for rail shipment over other forms of transportation.

With their dedicated workforce delivering around 7 million carloads annually, ranging from agricultural products to consumer goods, Norfolk Southern continues to play a vital role in the economy and logistics sector. The company maintains an extensive intermodal network in the Eastern U.S., facilitating connections with every major container port along the Atlantic coast and significant ports across the Gulf Coast and Great Lakes.

In conclusion, this recent collective bargaining agreement not only underlines a successful negotiation round but also reiterates Norfolk Southern’s commitment to its employees and sustainability. It showcases how constructive dialogue can lead to beneficial outcomes for both labor and management, paving the way for a more equitable workplace in the railroad industry.

For further information about Norfolk Southern and its operations, please visit Norfolk Southern’s website.