Ismael Rivera Joins ATU International as a Senior Organizer
International President John Costa has announced the hiring of longtime ATU Local 1596-Orlando, FL, member, and ATU Latino Caucus President Ismael Rivera as a Senior Organizer in the ATU Campaigns Department.
“I’ve known Ismael for many years, and he has done amazing work for his Local, our members, and our Union,” said Costa. “From bus operator to Local Vice President and President/Business Agent, ATU Latino Caucus President, and Lost Time Organizer, Ismael has spearheaded successful contract campaigns and organizing initiatives and has been a strong advocate for our Latino members. We welcome him as Senior Organizer where he can continue to serve our Locals and help to build on the success of our Campaigns Department.”
Brother Rivera began his career in public transit in 1997 in New York City as a Bus Operator at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) as a member of the Transport Workers Union (TWU). In January 2004, he moved to Orlando, FL, to become a Bus Operator for the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority/DBA Lynx and joined ATU Local 1596-Orlando, FL. Wanting to get more involved in his Local, Rivera ran and was elected Vice President in 2013. Then, in 2016, he was elected Local President/Business Agent, serving until 2019, when he became a Lost Time Organizer for ATU International, leading successful contract campaigns, organizing drives, and other campaigns for ATU Locals. Rivera was elected President of the ATU Latino Caucus in 2016, working to fight discrimination of any kind and uphold the rights of Latinos and all members in our Union, our Locals, and our communities.
“I am beyond honored for this opportunity to become a Senior Organizer at the Union I call home,” said Rivera. “Thank you, International President Costa, for believing in me and for your unwavering support and guidance throughout the years. It’s been an amazing experience to learn and grow under your leadership, and I look forward to continuing this journey as an ATU Senior Organizer.”