ATU International Representative Michael Cornelius appointed International Vice President

ATU International President John Costa has appointed ATU International Representative Michael Cornelius with approval by the ATU General Executive Board as an ATU International Vice President at the Spring ATU GEB meeting in San Diego, CA.

"As an International Representative Michael has brought his proven experience and skills to assist countless Locals in bargaining strong contracts with both public and private employers as well as managing successful campaigns for our Locals," said International President Costa. "A next-generation leader, Michael has a passion for the ATU, our members, and the labor movement. He is a great addition to our GEB and will continue to be a strong advocate for our members and our Union."

Cornelius became a member of ATU Local 1433-Phoenix, AZ in 2000 when he was hired as a bus operator for Phoenix Transit, now Valley Metro. With a desire to get more involved in his Local, he became a shop steward. Cornelius rose through the ranks, serving as the Local's Recording Secretary, an Executive Board member, and Vice President. In 2012, he was elected as Financial Secretary and helped lead the Local to financial stability. Cornelius also played an integral role in bargaining numerous collective bargaining agreements and successfully steered the Local through strikes with multiple private employers, including Transdev.

In 2017, Cornelius was appointed JIC Coordinator by the late International President Larry Hanley. He helped establish the JIC, which is comprised of Locals who have contracts with large, multinational transit employers like Transdev, MV Transportation, and others. In his JIC role, Cornelius assisted in settling contracts with private contractors at Locals across our Union.

Recognizing his talents and success with our Locals, International President John Costa in January 2020 appointed Cornelius as an International Representative. He has served in that position playing an important for our Locals across the Western states in negotiations, contract campaigns, and other issues.

"I am beyond humbled and honored to be appointed as International Vice President by International President John Costa. He has led our Union with grace and dignity through some of our most difficult times to continue to establish the ATU as the best Union in the labor movement," said Cornelius. "I look forward to working with International President Costa, International Executive President Yvette Trujillo, International Secretary Ken Kirk, and our General Executive Board to make our Union and members proud."