Newly Organized IAM Members at Alstom in Plattsburgh, N.Y. Ratify Strong First Contract

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y., Jan. 7, 2026 – New IAM Union members at Alstom Transportation in Plattsburgh, N.Y. voted to ratify their first-ever three-year collective bargaining agreement, marking a major milestone for rail manufacturing workers in upstate New York.  

This ratified agreement is the direct result of member solidarity and the successful IAM organizing effort that brought these rail production workers into the IAM Union. Together, members stood strong to secure enforceable rights, clear standards, and meaningful improvements that will raise wages and strengthen job protections for years to come.

At the Plattsburgh facility, IAM members play a crucial role in manufacturing, assembling, and repairing railcars and components that support passenger rail systems nationwide. Their skilled work is essential to keeping public transportation safe and reliable.

What members won:

• Immediate 3% wage increase, on top of the 2.8% increase already received in April 2025
• $1.50 an hour shift differential for second and third shift
• Team leads receive their hourly rate plus 10%
• Compensated time off counts towards hours worked for overtime
• A new classification system with increased pay rates beginning Jan. 1, 2027, ending favoritism and clearly defining advancement
• 2.75% wage increase effective Jan. 1, 2028

Members also secured major gains in time off, benefits, and job security, including:

• Expanded safe and sick leave
• Eight paid holidays plus four floating holidays
• Defined medical, dental, and vision costs with annual increases capped
• Life and disability insurance at no cost
• Clear layoff and recall protections
• Strong grievance language with enforceable timelines
• Guaranteed union representation on every shift
• Monthly joint labor-management committee meetings with senior management

“This agreement replaces uncertainty with enforceable rules and real protections,” said IAM Special Assistant to the International President for the Rail Division Josh Hartford. “More importantly, it establishes a solid foundation from which IAM Union members at Alstom can continue to build power, improve working conditions, and raise standards across the rail industry. Congratulations to the members, stewards, bargaining committee, and IAM Organizing Department on this important victory.”

These newly organized members now stand alongside their IAM represented coworkers at Alstom’s Hornell, N.Y. facility, strengthening the IAM’s presence and collective voice across the company and the rail industry. The new members will also be a part of IAM District 19, as well as establish their own Local.

 The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members in aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across North America.

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