Washington D.C. – On September 17, 2024, the United States Department of Labor (DOL) inducted the American Train Dispatchers Association (ATDA) and 8 other labor unions into its Century of Service Hall of Fame. Held at the DOL’s Washington, D.C. headquarters, the event recognized labor unions whose histories have recently surpassed the 100-year mark.
In addition to highlighting the past contributions of the inducted unions, the event focused on the increasingly bright and equitable future of the American Labor movement. Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, and several other speakers reinforced this theme, encouraging unions to fight on behalf of all workers, regardless of race, gender, or background.
As an Organization whose solidarity is firmly rooted in seniority alone, ATDA embraces this message and will continue fighting to provide improved pay and working conditions for all members. Carrying this even further, ATDA President Ed Dowell continues to advance the inclusion and empowerment of ATDA’s nationwide membership. The DOL event provided another showcase of this commitment, as over 20 ATDA leaders, members, staff, and past national officers were invited to take part in the historic commemoration.
Reflecting on the significance of the day’s events, President Dowell said “It was a great honor to accept this recognition on behalf of the ATDA, and a privilege to receive it directly from Acting Secretary of Labor, Julie Su. Sharing this moment with some of our current ATDA leaders and some of our past officers was truly an unforgettable experience. It is our members who have made our great Organization what it is today, and I have profound confidence in their ability to shape our future. I have no doubt that our collective efforts will continue to result in improved wages, benefits, and quality of life for our members for many years to come.”
ATDA President Ed Dowell (left) receives a commemorative award from acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, marking the induction of ATDA into the DOL’s Century of Service Honor Roll
From left to right: BNSF General Chairman Kevin Ketcham, ATDA Membership & Member Benefits Specialist Amber Davis, Kiamichi General Chairman Andy Brewer, Amtrak General Chairman Jessica Veltri, NS Integrated General Chairman Nick Serrano, Tri-Rail General Chairman Erica Ray, and WC General Chairman Tim Evans
Retired ATDA President Leo McCann (left), acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, and current ATDA President Ed Dowell