Fairfax Connector Strike Enters Day Six! What Happened and How Contractors Can Avoid This Happening Again

In a show of solidarity and determination, over 600 Fairfax County Connector bus drivers and mechanics continue their strike for a sixth consecutive day, sending ripples of inconvenience through the local commuter community. As a result, the much relied-upon bus service will remain suspended, leaving passengers scrambling to find alternative means of transportation.

Fun fact for those who've been keeping score this is the second strike within the DMV (DC MD VA) region in the last year and a half. Previously the DC circulator, operated by RATPDEV also went on strike. Both were local 689 ATU.

But how did we get here....again, but more importantly how can contractors avoid it.

Here's 5 ways Contractors can avoid strikes.

Have A Strike Team

I understand that this term originates from the military, but let's explore its application here. While I agree that Fairfax drivers deserve higher pay, financial constraints will likely persist. Such is the nature of our capitalistic society, where growth is paramount. It's reasonable to expect that those receiving higher wages would seek continued growth.

That being said, while we can take steps to mitigate the risk of strikes, it's important to acknowledge that the possibility may still exist.

One solution could involve building a corporate team of operators, consisting of around 10 to 15 individuals. These team members could serve as fill-ins during times of labor unrest, providing much-needed support. Additionally, during slower periods, they could be deployed to locations experiencing high demand due to staffing shortages. This proactive approach could help manage disruptions more effectively while ensuring continuous service delivery.

Stop Agreeing To Go Unicorn Hunting

As a recruiter, I've encountered numerous challenges that can make finding the perfect candidate feel like searching for a unicorn with dreadlocks. What I mean by that is, I've faced incredibly tough positions to fill, to the point where I've asked myself, "Who even agreed to this?"

The reality is that many (though not all) contract bids are so focused on winning the contract that they overlook what's actually feasible and practical. It's crucial to have a clear understanding of what's expected in a particular region before diving into recruitment efforts.

Let's be real – it's tough to find a driver with over three years of experience, a CDL, and who's over the age of 25 and willing to accept a pay cut for a two-week training period, especially considering the current economic climate. I don't say this to be offensive, but rather as a practical assessment of the situation. This is the reality we're dealing with.

Let's face it – candidates who meet these complex criteria are often either recently terminated or frequent job hoppers. And you know what? There's nothing inherently wrong with either scenario. However, building a transit agency solely on seat fillers rather than talented individuals is a recipe for headaches and inefficiency. It's essential to prioritize quality over quantity when assembling your team to ensure long-term success and stability.

Get More Flexible

One of the biggest myths surrounding transportation is the belief that younger people aren't interested in it. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Just take a look at Uber and Amazon DSP, where the average driver age is only 23. Young people are actively involved in driving, and in fact, the majority of drivers in the Transit Gigs ecosystem are under the age of 25.

The reality is that flexible hybrid work options are here to stay. These opportunities appeal to younger individuals who may not necessarily see transportation as a long-term career path but are looking for ways to make money while pursuing their next endeavor. And you know what? That's not a bad thing at all. In fact, it may be more sustainable in the long run.

By offering more flexible options, transit agencies can tap into a younger demographic and cater to their needs. After all, young people are just as influenced by union culture, and providing flexible opportunities can be a win-win for both parties involved.

Have Competitive Wages To The Area, Not The Industry

The average starting wage for a bus driver nationally is $21 per hour, which is considered the industry standard. However, in the DMV area, the average starting wage for a bus driver is notably higher at $25 per hour. It's important to note that Northern Virginia, where the strike is located, is one of the wealthiest parts of America.

This wage differential presents a significant challenge for Fairfax County in negotiating deals, as it's difficult to justify offering drivers a lower hourly rate when neighboring transit agencies are offering higher wages for the same job in the same community. The wage disparity is reminiscent of the challenges faced by the DC Circulator last year, where drivers were earning $18 per hour while WMATA, just across the street, was paying their drivers $30 per hour for the same role.

Grow Your Own Grass

One thing Transit Gigs excels at is cultivating a new generation of bus drivers. Currently, the average age of transit workers is 53, whereas the average age of the U.S. workforce is in their mid-20s. However, our average driver is just 22 years old.

Here's the real : $20 an hour might not seem like much for a bus driver, but it's a significant opportunity for individuals with other aspirations who happen to possess a CDL. This presents a bridge that contractors can capitalize on.

By offering flexible schedules, fostering a younger environment, and providing accessibility to a CDL, contractors can effectively scale their workforces, enhance their organizational culture, and mitigate overall risk. In fact, these measures could potentially ease the impact of a strike.

If you're interested in learning more about how Transit Gigs can help scale your transit workforce, create flexible options, attract a younger demographic, and foster a better organizational culture, schedule some time with me so we can discuss your goals in detail. Let's make it happen!