Pennie McCoach, President and Business Agent of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 308, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her journey from being a single mother to union leadership, the challenges facing women in transit and the funding shortfall threatening Chicago's public transportation system.
McCoach's path to union leadership began when her mother-in-law encouraged her to apply for a position with the Chicago Transit Authority. As a single mother of two, McCoach saw the opportunity for better benefits and a pension. She started as a rail operator in 2000, facing the challenges of learning a new trade in her 30s. McCoach's involvement with a women's group within the union sparked her interest in advocacy, leading to her rise through various union positions before becoming the second female president of ATU Local 308 in over 20 years.
Women in transit face unique challenges, including limited access to restrooms and safety concerns. McCoach highlighted the union's efforts to improve working conditions, such as securing maternity and paternity leave for members. She emphasized the importance of unions in providing benefits like defined pensions, which are increasingly rare in other sectors. McCoach's leadership style, influenced by her upbringing as the daughter of a Baptist minister, focuses on serving others and giving back to the community.
The Chicago transit system is currently facing a funding crisis, with a projected $770 million shortfall for next year. McCoach, as part of the Labor Alliance for Public Transit, is working with a coalition of 30 Local Unions representing 15,000 workers to address this issue. The group is lobbying state legislators to secure dedicated funding for mass transit in Illinois, improve safety measures and enhance social services. McCoach stressed the critical role of public transportation for those who cannot afford vehicles and the potential impact of service cuts on communities.
Listen to the full episode to hear more about McCoach's journey and her efforts to protect Chicago's vital transit system.