Former Boston Carmen’s President Stephen MacDougall Appointed as ATU International Vice President

Carmen’s Local 589 extends our congratulations to former Union President Stephen MacDougall on his well-deserved appointment as Vice President to the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) International.

Macdougall’s ties to Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589 run strong, originating in 1986 when he joined the union as a bus operator for the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA). When the MBTA later attempted to privatize the public system, he became a willing and combative soldier in the many battles the Local fought in its successful campaign to protect and preserve public transit in Boston.

Following the union’s win, MacDougall increased his involvement with Carmen’s, as he was elected Barn Captain in the Light Rail Division until he was later elected as Local 589 Vice President. MacDougall served as a full-time union officer in this position until his promotion to President and Business Agent of the Boston Carmen’s Union. After nine years of leading his local, in 2011 MacDougall began his work with ATU International as an International Representative. MacDougall held this position for the past decade where he has tirelessly worked to better the lives of all public transit workers.

“I am honored to be appointed as an ATU International Vice President by our International President John Costa with the approval of the General Executive Board,” said MacDougall.

“International President John Costa has led us through one of our most difficult periods as a union. For so many of us, ATU membership has meant economic security throughout the pandemic and beyond. It has also allowed workers to have sick leave, vacation time, and other benefits, which gives members and their families an improved quality of life. I am looking forward to continuing our important work alongside International President Costa, IEVP Javier Perez, IST Ken Kirk, the General Executive Board, and all of our locals. Thank you again for this honor.”