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Class I Briefs: BNSF, NS

Members of the Transportation Communications Union/IAM (TCU) intermodal group ratify a new labor agreement with BNSF. Also, Norfolk Southern (NS) congratulates Mercedes-Benz on its $4 billion investment in its Alabama operations.

BNSF

Members of the TCU intermodal group on April 1 announced the ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement with BNSF Railway. The five-year agreement covers BNSF members at Cicero, Corwith, Seattle, and Memphis Intermodal facilities.

“The ratification of this agreement is a clear reflection of the strength of our partnership with TCU’s intermodal team members,” said BNSF President and Chief Executive Officer Katie Farmer. “Their confidence in this path forward energizes our efforts to keep raising the bar on our shared purpose of safety and service.”

The agreement covers 746 employees and gives covered members wage increases totaling 17.5% over five years (18.8% compounded) with retroactive pay beginning July 1, 2025, as well as accelerated enhancements in vacation and preserved health care benefits.

“The overwhelming support for this agreement is a testament to the hard work and preparation of our bargaining committee,” said Charles Soukep, TCU national representative.

The agreement follows the same terms as the current national pattern. More than 95% of BNSF’s workforce is currently covered by ratified agreements, according to the Class I.

NS

NS recently congratulated Mercedes-Benz on its $4 billion investment in its Alabama operations.

(Image Courtesy of Made in Alabama)

“We’re proud to serve the Mercedes‑Benz U.S. International plant in Vance today and to support American manufacturing through a safe, reliable, and sustainable rail network. Investments like this strengthen U.S. supply chains, create jobs, and reinforce the Southeast’s role as a global automotive and export hub,” the Class I wrote in a social media post. “We look forward to continuing our partnership as Mercedes‑Benz grows its footprint in Alabama!”