Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees

The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees (BMWE) is a U.S. labor union dedicated to representing workers involved in the construction and maintenance of railroad tracks, bridges, buildings, and other related structures. Founded in July 1887 in Demopolis, Alabama, by John T. Wilson under the name Order of Railroad Trackmen, the organization has evolved significantly over the years.

History

Initially restricted to track foremen, the BMWE expanded its membership to include all maintenance workers by the late 1890s. By 1899, it merged with a Canadian organization, becoming an international union. The BMWE established its Grand Lodge headquarters in Detroit, Michigan, in 1913.

Throughout its history, the BMWE has been crucial in labor negotiations and advocacy for railroad workers. In 2004, it merged with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, becoming the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division.

Structure and Affiliations

The BMWE is structured into System Divisions or Federations, each overseeing multiple railroad systems and Subordinate Lodges. It is now part of the Teamster Rail Conference, alongside other unions like the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen.

Legacy and Impact

The BMWE has played a pivotal role in shaping labor practices and advocating for better working conditions for maintenance workers. Despite significant changes in the railroad industry, including automation and mergers that have reduced membership from over 350,000, the BMWE continues to advocate for worker rights.

Leadership

Tony Cardwell became the president of the BMWED in June 2022, marking a new era of leadership. Staci Moody-Gilbert and Reese Saulter were also elected as the first woman and African American vice presidents, respectively.

Recent Activities

In April 2024, the BMWE voiced its support for an investor-led initiative to replace management at Norfolk Southern Railway, demonstrating its ongoing involvement in industry governance and leadership. This stance reflects the BMWE's commitment to labor rights and industry reform.

The BMWE remains a significant force in the U.S. railroad industry, continuing its efforts to support and protect the interests of maintenance workers across the nation.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brotherhood_of_Maintenance_of_Way_Employes [2] https://reuther.wayne.edu/files/LR001535.pdf [3] https://reuther.wayne.edu/files/LR001535_1.pdf [4] http://rmc.library.cornell.edu/EAD/htmldocs/KCL05005.html