Category: Member Spotlight
Women’s History Month Spotlights Trailblazing Union Sisters
As Women’s History Month draws to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the remarkable SMART-TD sisters who are making history every day and challenging what it means to be a powerful leader in traditionally male-dominated industries. Whether on the rails or on the road, these fearless women are committed to making things better for those who will follow in their footsteps.
Virginia Rail Yard Renamed in Honor of 50-Year Member
Brother Robert “RC” Hailes recently celebrated 50 years of service as both a SMART-TD member and working for the Norfolk & Portsmouth Beltline Railroad in Virgina. Read on to find out what honor Brother Hailes received to mark this significant milestone and commemorate five decades of leadership.
Sister Heather Steele Turns Adversity into Action
After experiencing a brutal on-duty assault nearly two years ago, Sister Heather Steele refused to let the incident define her career or her legacy. Instead, she’s becoming the face of the national rail safety movement while continuing her physical recovery. As Women’s History Month draws to a close, read on to learn how Sister Steele embodies what it means to build history in real time and what’s next on her advocacy journey.
Retiring Wisconsin Member Receives Two Prestigious Honors
Brother Steve James (Local 590, Portage, Wis.) retired in December of 2025 after more than 30 years on the railroad, many of those spent serving SMART-TD members in his home state. To show their appreciation for his dedication and hard work, he received two meaningful honors from both his local and state legislative board. Read on for details.
Sister Kim Collier Paves the Way Forward for Women in Wyoming
After more than three decades working as an engineer for Union Pacific, Sister Kim Collier (Local 1857, Green River, Wyo.) will be the first one to tell you that she’s pretty much seen and done it all. As Women’s History Month approaches its last full week, read on to learn more about her unexpected entry into the industry and why she believes that welcoming more female members starts with us.
Honoring Our Transit Members
Transit workers keep communities moving while representing our union with professionalism, resilience, and pride. Read on to see how their leadership and advocacy continue shaping safer workplaces and a stronger future for all.
St. Patrick’s Day: A Tradition of Workers
St. Patrick’s Day traditions in Chicago and Boston highlight deep ties between Irish heritage and the labor movement, honoring generations of workers who built both the railroads and unions. Read on to see how SMART-TD’s involvement in these celebrations continues that legacy today.
From Stuck in Traffic to Blazing the Trail: The Rise of AVP Markeisha Haynes
Alternate Vice President Markeisha Haynes has ascended the ranks of SMART-TD leadership while still working as a Bus Operator, ensuring that she stays connected to her members’ needs and fights for the changes that they want to see. As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, read on to learn more about her 20-year union journey, including what she considers her most significant accomplishment that came from simply trusting her gut.