Regional chamber says Erie can't afford to lose Wabtec plant, UE jobs

Erie can no longer afford to ignore the potential aftermath of nonagreement between Wabtec and UE Locals 506 and 618. The consequences of failing to find common ground in this dispute extend far beyond the confines of the factory floor; they threaten the well-being of our entire community and the families of those employed.

As the strike lingers with no progress in sight, it is time to face the unfortunate fact that Wabtec will have to begin making hard decisions regarding which facilities to continue investing in and which facilities will ultimately become dormant. To ignore the looming reality that the Erie plant may not make the cut would be irresponsible and is a conversation that can no longer be ignored.

Let us be clear: The Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership is pro-jobs in Erie — jobs which Wabtec provides and — we hope — will continue growing pending an agreement with UE Locals 506 and 618.

A plant shutdown would lead to an immediate domino effect on local businesses that rely on the patronage of the 1,400 union workers and their families. From small shops and restaurants to service providers and suppliers, the livelihoods of countless other families hang in the balance.

From the company:Wabtec: Two issues hinder talks, 'finding common ground is the path to collective success'

Latest:Wabtec sues union, seeks injunction aimed at conduct of striking workers on picket line

Furthermore, we cannot overlook the wider ramifications that such an impasse could inflict on the local economy. The loss of jobs means fewer people with disposable income to spend on goods and services, leading to a decline in demand and a ripple effect on other businesses and industries. When we conducted an economic impact study during the 2019 strike, our research indicated 6,800 jobs would be impacted or roughly a $400 million economic impact. This chain reaction could ultimately result in a slowdown in economic growth, reduced tax revenues, and budget cuts impacting vital public services and infrastructure. Taken further, each job in theory represents one person working who is likely part of a larger family unit — making the true impact ripple through a conservative estimate of 18,000 citizens or roughly 6% of our population.

Support for UE:Union workers at Wabtec show us the way to a better future for all

The collective prosperity of our community is directly linked to the success and stability of these jobs.

We must not forget that the 1,400 union workers on the picket lines are our neighbors, friends, and family members. Their hard work has made manufacturing the backbone of our community's legacy. Their determination to fight for better working conditions, fair wages, and a secure future for their families is commendable and should be met with empathy and understanding.

In the same vein, Wabtec is not just a faceless entity but an integral part of our community's fabric. They have been a vital source of employment for countless individuals, supporting families, and bolstering our local economy. The jobs they provide enable our fellow citizens to put food on the table, pay for their children's education, and lead fulfilling lives. The potential loss of these jobs would be a devastating blow, sending shock waves through every aspect and industry within our community.

Only through unity and cooperation can we build a stronger, more resilient future for all. The stakes are high, and the consequences of inaction would be dire. The path to reconciliation may not be easy, but it is one we must walk to safeguard the livelihoods of our fellow citizens and the stability of our local economy.

Guest column:Christina Vogel invites Wabtec CEO Rafael Santana to engage with the people of Erie

Submitted by the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership Board of Directors’ Executive Committee: Dr. Chris Clark, chair; Dr. Ralph Ford, Christine Marsh, Phil English, Jim Rutkowski Jr., Bill Speros, Dave Zimmer and Matt Zonno; and James Grunke, president and CEO, of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership.