Jay Seegmiller is currently serving as the Utah State Legislative Director for UTU.

Jay has been a continuous member of the UTU since 1976. During that time Jay has held the offices of Local Vice President, Legislative Representative, Local Chairman and Delegate.

Jay worked for the Union Pacific (1976-1987) as a Switchman, Brakeman, Yardmaster, and Conductor, and is currently working for Amtrak (1987- present) as a Conductor.

In 2008, Jay ran for the Utah State Legislature against the sitting Speaker of the House.  Jay won the election which was the biggest upset in Utah politics in 40 years.  If you want someone fighting for you who not only fights the tough fights, but wins, Jay is your man.

While serving in the Utah State Legislature, Jay was able to gain valuable experience and insight into the internal workings of lawmaking. While in office Jay received a scholarship to the Western Legislative Academy, where Jay received in-depth instruction in becoming an effective legislator, including instruction on how to deal with difficult interviews with the press, public speaking, utilizing lobbyists, effective messaging, and policy making.

Jay’s unique experience and success as a legislator in a very conservative, right to work (for less) state, as well as his experience in both freight and passenger service will benefit the UTU membership in our efforts in Washington, DC.

With the aggressive attacks from extremists in Washington, DC and in state legislatures, that could jeopardize FELA, Railroad Retirement, Amtrak, and all of organized labor, Jay’s experience will be a asset to our membership as Alternate Legislative Director for the UTU.

Jay has been married to his lovely wife Michelle for 33 years.  He has 4 children and 4 grandchildren.  Jay’s oldest daughter (Kathryn Hastings) has served the UTU Auxiliary as National Legislative Director and is currently serving as Alternate National Legislative Director for the UTU Auxiliary.

If you have any questions for Jay he may be reached at 801-209-9558.

Other credentials and positions:

• 2 time recipient of Amtrak’s prestigious “President Safety and Service Award”.  In 2000 for Safety Committee of the Year, and 2006 for Individual Safety Achievement for his efforts in improving safety in the workplace and at home.
• Vice Chair Amtrak Western Division Operation Red Block
• Member of the Advisory Board for the “Sutherland Institute” (where Jay is the voice for labor at this conservative think tank)