Lorton, VA – April 24, 2025 — In a landmark victory, employees of Drummac Inc. who load and unload the Amtrak Auto Train in Lorton, Virginia, have officially ratified their first Co
llective Bargaining Agreement with TCU/IAM.
The contract covers drivers, chockers, and inspectors who work on one of Amtrak’s most critical and profitable routes – the Auto Train line that runs daily between Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL. This win is particularly significant given the location: Virginia is a right-to-work state, where union victories can be especially hard-won.
Negotiations ramped up in June 2024. Workers remained steadfast, demanding basic dignity. A pivotal moment came in early 2025 when TCU/IAM staged an informational picket to raise public awareness that Drummac workers were fighting for a living wage.
“This is more than a contract—this is history for these workers and our Union,” said Sal Rodriguez, TCU/IAM Organizing Director. “These employees fought for their right to organize, voted to unionize in November 2023, and never gave up. They stood strong for their rights and now have a contract to show for it.”
The agreement ratified by the membership yesterday includes the following terms: an average 6.75% retroactive hourly rate increase, a 3.75% GWI increase effective this month, and a 3.5% GWI increase in 2026. The contract also secured rights that are standard in union workplaces: a grievance and arbitration procedure, union representation in the event of discipline, a seniority-based system for layoffs and recalls, paid overtime after 40 hours, establishment of a Labor/Management committee, provision of uniforms, boot reimbursement and P.P.E. PTO, Holidays and other leave were cemented into the contract. Stipends are guaranteed for workers required to work irregular hours caused by late train arrivals.
National Vice President and lead Negotiator Matt Hollis explained: “This wasn’t just about better pay—it was about being seen, being heard, and being respected. These workers demanded nothing more than what many Americans already enjoy: a livable wage, consistent hours, and workplace respect. These workers changed the game in a right-to-work state, and that’s powerful.”
“This win means the world to us—this was our first-ever grassroots organizing campaign. Now we’ve seen it go all the way – from winning the vote to winning a contract,” said TCU National President Maratea.