BNSF, TCU intermodal employees reach new tentative labor agreement

Ninety-five percent of BNSF’s workforce now covered by ratified or tentative agreements

FORT WORTH, TEXAS, Feb. 20, 2026 – BNSF Railway, one of North America’s leading transportation companies, announced today it has reached a new five-year, collective bargaining agreement with members of the Transportation Communications Union/IAM (TCU) intermodal group, covering members at the BNSF Cicero, Corwith, Seattle, and Memphis Intermodal facilities. 

The new agreement, subject to ratification, covers 746 employees and gives covered members wage increases totaling 17.5% over five years (18.8% compounded) with retroactive pay beginning July 1, 2025, as well as accelerated enhancements in vacation and preserved health care benefits. 

“This new tentative agreement reflects the vital role our TCU intermodal team members play in our operation,” said BNSF President and Chief Executive Officer Katie Farmer. “Open, honest collaboration is the foundation of our success, and this marks our unwavering commitment to maintaining exceptional safety and service for our customers.”

“I want to commend our bargaining committee for their efforts to secure real gains, and I’m confident this agreement moves our members forward,” said TCU/IAM National President Matt Hollis. “I also recognize the cooperation of BNSF CEO Katie Farmer and her labor relations team.  Reaching agreements for such a large number of employees isn’t always the easiest task, but I appreciate the effort of both groups who worked diligently to reach a fair agreement.”

This tentative agreement follows the same terms as the current national pattern. Ninety-five percent of BNSF’s workforce and 12 of the 13 represented unions are now covered by either ratified or tentative agreements.

Contact:
Kendall Kirkham Sloan
Director, External Communications
Media@BNSF.com