The 2023 Academic Year in Memory of International Executive Vice President Michael J. Siano
Born and raised in Union City, NJ, Michael J. Siano was a star athlete in Hudson County, NJ. Following service in the U.S. Army, he joined ATU Local 821-Jersey City, NJ in 1959 as a bus operator for Public Service Coordinated Transport, now NJ Transit. Wanting to get more involved in his Local, Siano became a shop steward in 1962. Siano was then elected President and Business Agent of Local 821 ten years later.
“Mike Siano was a mentor and close friend. I admired him for his toughness and his dedication to fight for a better life for our members,” said ATU International President John Costa. “Mike was a fearless negotiator who took on the toughest battles and had a lifelong commitment to civil rights. Devoting more than 50 years to the ATU, Mike was a beloved leader and friend to all ATU members.”
Siano was elected International Vice President at the 1981 ATU International Convention. He was re-elected International Vice President at the next seven ATU International Conventions.
In June 2003, Siano was appointed International Executive Vice President by International President Warren George. Siano was elected as International Executive Vice President at the 2004 ATU International Convention and re-elected at the 2007 ATU International Convention. Siano retired on July 31, 2009.
Siano was also a devoted family man and many remember his proud declarations of love for his wife Judy - his high school sweetheart - and his family during all of his acceptance speeches at ATU International Conventions.
Questions about the application process please contact Kayla Warner, Executive Assistant to the International Secretary-Treasurer at kwarner@atu.org or 301-431-7100 ext. 232