Norfolk Southern, SMART-TD partner to enhance conductor training

Norfolk Southern Corporation and the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers – Transportation Division announced Wednesday that they are partnering to launch several new initiatives to further enhance the training program for conductor trainees and increase compensation for conductors who help provide this important training. The new agreement underscores NS and SMART-TD’s joint commitment to immediately developing and deploying innovative training initiatives, including: A train-the-trainer program for all conductors and foremen to ensure consistency and quality in the training they provide to new trainees. A standardized process to monitor and report progress on all activities outlined in the existing trainee qualification book. A bilateral rating system to allow conductor trainers and trainees to rate each other’s engagement, professionalism, and commitment to safety. To further recognize the important role that the company’s craft conductors play in training, effective August 1, 2023, Norfolk Southern will increase the training stipend for conductors providing instruction from $10 to $30 for a through-freight-service shift, and $35 for all other service shifts. Finally, for those craft employees who step away from their work full-time to offer support and instruction – known as craft mentors – Norfolk Southern will raise their daily pay from $325 to $375, acknowledging the critical impact these railroaders make in our efforts to develop the company’s conductor workforce.