Discover the Training & Upgrading Fund (TUF)

Your journey to success starts here — and we’re with you every step of the way.
OUR MISSION:

Empowering TWU Local 100 members through EDUCATION

At TUF, we are committed to equipping our members with the skills and knowledge needed to advance careers. Join us to sharpen your skills, broaden your knowledge, and unlock the doors to success.

Career Coaching and Programs that Create a New Career Path

Find the program that fits your goals.

Tutoring for Members & their Families

Connect with expert tutors online.

Your Education Goals Supported Through Tuition Reimbursement

Advance your career on your own terms with up to $4000 per fiscal year.

Our Journey to a Leading Educational Organization

The Training and Upgrading Fund (TUF) is dedicated to empowering TWU Local 100 members through education, skills development, and career advancement. Our programs provide members with the tools needed to succeed, from foundational courses in Math, English, and Basic Trades to advanced Technical Training, Certifications, and Tuition Reimbursement.

At TUF, we believe that investing in our members is investing in the future of transit. We offer hands-on training, professional development workshops, and pathways to promotions, ensuring that every member has the opportunity to grow, advance, and thrive.

The Team Behind Your Growth

Meet your Partners in Progress
  • Charles Jenkins

    Director

    Charles Jenkins

    Director

    With 37 years of dedicated service to TWU Local 100, our Director has devoted his career to empowering members and strengthening the community. As the Line Equipment Chair and President of the New York Chapter, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU), he continues to lead with vision, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to those he represents.

    Throughout his career, he has worn many hats, all centered around service, advocacy, and opportunity. He has developed numerous programs to help members gain new skills, advance in their careers, and reach their full potential within Transit. His leadership is guided by the belief that when members are empowered through education and training, the entire union and community grow stronger.

    Outside of work, he’s a proud grandfather whose grandkids look up to him as a role model. He’s also a car enthusiast who enjoys attending car shows and keeping his rides in top shape. Known for his sharp sense of style, he takes pride in looking his best, both on and off the job, bringing the same confidence and polish to his work that he does to his wardrobe.

    That’s our boss, and we are proud to have him as a leader.

  • Helen Ogbogu

    Administrator

    Helen Ogbogu

    Administrator

    As the Administrator of the Training Fund, I serve in multiple capacities. From leading our dedicated team who are passionate about helping our members grow, to managing projects, creating videos, and capturing TUF’s incredible moments through photography. I’m an all-around coordinator, a Helen of all trades, who takes great pride in supporting our members and helping bring our organization’s story to life. Outside of work, I’m a big fan of wrestling, from WWE to UFC. I also love anime and getting out in nature to sightsee and recharge.

  • Alexandro Ramos

    Outreach Coordinator

    Alexandro Ramos

    Outreach Coordinator

    I am a proud United States Marine Corps veteran. After completing my military service, I joined the MTA in 2003, starting in a cleaning position. Through the union, I was given the opportunity to attend trade school and earn my electrical certification. That training opened the door for my promotion to Light Maintainer — a role I continue to take pride in.

    I’m now in my third year as TWU’s Outreach Coordinator, where I have the privilege of helping members enhance their knowledge and skill sets through the programs offered by the Training and Upgrading Fund. In addition, I serve as a union officer for Maintenance of Way, holding the position of Recording Secretary for the Line Equipment and Signals section.

    I take great pride in serving our members and community, and I’m always eager to share information that helps others succeed. Outside of work, I enjoy riding my motorcycle, traveling to Puerto Rico, and spending quality time with my wife, whom I love dearly.

  • Sabrina Bryant

    Tuition Reimbursement Coordinator

    Sabrina Bryant

    Tuition Reimbursement Coordinator

    After almost two decades of dedicated service to TWU Local 100 members, I transitioned from a Program Coordinator to Tuition Reimbursement Coordinator, continuing my passion for helping members achieve their educational goals with less financial hardship. My work has deepened my belief that education is not only the key to success but also a vital step toward career advancement. Inspired by the members I serve, I am now pursuing my own Bachelor of Science in Education to further my impact in the field of learning and professional development. Outside of work, I love to laugh and embrace life’s simple joys. Life is short, so I believe in making every moment meaningful and everlasting.

  • Hamza Washington

    Program Coordinator

    Hamza Washington

    Program Coordinator

    I work as a Program Coordinator at TWU Local 100, where I enjoy helping members build their skills and advance their careers using the resources and programs offered through TUF. With my educational background, I take pride in guiding members to achieve their goals and discover new opportunities for growth. Outside of work, I’m a huge sports fan and proudly root for the Knicks and Yankees, bringing the same passion and teamwork from sports into everything I do.

  • Simone Haylett

    Program Coordinator

    Simone Haylett

    Program Coordinator

    I proudly support Local 100 members as a Program Coordinator with the Training and Upgrading Fund, where I help design advertising mediums of TUF programs that empower members to grow their skills and advance their careers. I love creating engaging flyers and materials that make learning accessible and exciting. Outside of work, I’m passionate about music, anime, DIY projects, and spending quality time with family and friends. Creativity, curiosity, and connection drive everything I do—both in the office and in life.


A Message from tuf director:

“Empowerment starts with Opportunity, and that’s exactly what TUF provides.“

For nearly four decades, I’ve had the privilege of serving TWU Local 100 members and witnessing the incredible growth that comes when working people are given access to education, training, and support. At the Training and Upgrading Fund, our mission is simple: to help our members reach their full potential in Transit.
Every course, every workshop, every program we create, is designed with one goal in mind: to open the doors to success. Whether it’s a member preparing for a promotion, gaining new technical skills, or discovering a new career path, TUF continues to be a place where dreams turn into accomplishments.

Together, we’re not just training, we’re transforming futures.