The National Railway Labor Conference (NRLC) today announced the appointment of Stephanie Deiger as vice chair. Deiger succeeds Jeff Rodgers, who held the role prior to being named chair in late 2024.
Most recently, Deiger was chief human resources officer at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA).
She has nearly three decades of labor relations experience, according to an NRLC press release. Before joining SEPTA in 2010, Deiger was an attorney at Ballard Spahr in Philadelphia. Prior to that, she served as a field examiner for the National Labor Relations Board.
Deiger joins the NRLC just as the freight rail industry has reached dozens of local and national agreements to resolve the current round of national bargaining, NRLC officials said.

New Leadership at the National Railway Labor Conference Signals a Period of Transition

The railway industry is a complex ecosystem, dependent on strong labor relations to function effectively. Recently, the National Railway Labor Conference (NRLC) has announced a significant leadership change, appointing Stephanie Deiger as its new vice chair. This appointment arrives at a crucial juncture for the freight rail sector, as it navigates the complexities of national bargaining agreements. Deiger’s extensive experience in labor relations, spanning nearly three decades, positions her well to guide the NRLC through the evolving landscape of the industry. This transition marks a shift in the organization’s leadership, promising new perspectives and strategies as the rail industry adapts to changing economic and operational demands. This article will delve into Deiger’s background, the significance of her appointment, and the context of current labor negotiations within the rail industry.

A Seasoned Professional: Stephanie Deiger’s Background

Stephanie Deiger’s appointment as vice chair of the NRLC brings a wealth of experience to the table. Prior to this role, she served as the chief human resources officer at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). Her responsibilities there likely encompassed a wide array of labor-related issues, including collective bargaining, grievance resolution, and employee relations.

Before joining SEPTA in 2010, Deiger practiced law at Ballard Spahr in Philadelphia. This experience provided her with a deep understanding of legal frameworks relevant to labor negotiations and employment law. She began her career as a field examiner for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Deiger’s career trajectory demonstrates a commitment to labor relations, equipping her with a multifaceted perspective critical for navigating the complexities of the industry.

The NRLC and its Role in Labor Relations

The National Railway Labor Conference (NRLC) plays a pivotal role in the freight rail industry’s labor relations. As the primary bargaining representative for major U.S. freight railroads, the NRLC negotiates collective bargaining agreements with various labor unions. These agreements cover a wide range of issues, including wages, benefits, working conditions, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

The NRLC’s primary function is to achieve fair and workable agreements that enable the smooth and efficient operation of the rail network. By doing so, the NRLC contributes to the economic stability of the industry and the broader economy.

The NRLC’s success is crucial for maintaining a stable and productive work environment.

Current Context: Navigating National Bargaining

Deiger’s appointment coincides with a critical period in the freight rail industry, with the sector having recently reached numerous local and national agreements to resolve the current round of national bargaining.

These negotiations, which often involve multiple unions and complex issues, can significantly impact the industry’s operational costs, productivity, and overall financial health. The ability to forge agreements and avoid work stoppages is of utmost importance. The current bargaining round is a testament to the complex and often contentious process of negotiating these agreements, reflecting the need for skilled negotiators and a deep understanding of the industry.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for the NRLC

Stephanie Deiger’s appointment as the new vice chair of the National Railway Labor Conference marks a significant turning point for the organization. Her extensive experience in labor relations, coupled with her background in law and human resources, provides a strong foundation for navigating the challenges and opportunities facing the freight rail industry.

The timing of her appointment, coinciding with the culmination of recent national bargaining agreements, is particularly noteworthy. This suggests a strategic move to ensure continuity and stability in the NRLC’s leadership as the industry adapts to changing economic conditions and operational demands.

Deiger’s experience at SEPTA, and previous roles at Ballard Spahr and the NLRB, have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the nuances of labor relations, making her uniquely qualified to lead the NRLC through the current challenges. Her appointment signals a commitment to fostering constructive dialogue, securing mutually beneficial agreements, and supporting the long-term health and productivity of the freight rail industry. The industry is likely to see a continued focus on effective negotiation, dispute resolution, and collaborative efforts to address the evolving needs of both employers and employees. With Deiger at the helm, the NRLC is well-positioned to navigate the complex landscape of rail labor relations and ensure the continued success of the industry.

Summary of companies:

National Railway Labor Conference (NRLC): The primary bargaining representative for major U.S. freight railroads, responsible for negotiating collective bargaining agreements with labor unions.

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA): A regional public transportation authority that provides services in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Ballard Spahr: A law firm in Philadelphia, where Deiger practiced law.

National Labor Relations Board (NLRB): A U.S. government agency that enforces labor laws.

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