Real people. Real trades. Real traditions.

For IAM members, the bonds built on the job often extend far beyond the workplace. That spirit is on full display in “The Cobia Crew,” the latest episode of the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance’s (USA) Solid Ground video series.

The episode follows cousins Brian and Jamey Cavey and Brian’s father, Bernie, as they trade the jobsite for the Chesapeake Bay in pursuit of one of the region’s most powerful game fish,  cobia.

What began more than three decades ago as a shared passion between Brian and Jamey, who were young Insulator apprentices at the time, has grown into a lasting family tradition. Through years on the job and countless days on the water, the Cavey family has continued to share the friendships, skills and traditions that bring working families together.

Watch. Comment. Win.

“The Cobia Crew” is now streaming on YouTube.

Watch the episode, join the conversation in the comments and enter for a chance to win a fishing prize package.

Watch and comment by Oct. 25 for your chance to win!

Watch “The Cobia Crew” on YouTube

Have an outdoor tradition of your own?

The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance is looking for union members whose stories showcase friendship, craftsmanship and the traditions that connect life on the job with life outdoors.

If you have an outdoor adventure or tradition you’d like to share, apply for a future episode of Solid Ground.

Apply for Solid Ground

Share your story. Celebrate your union. Keep the tradition alive.

The post Union Members Take Their Traditions to the Water in “The Cobia Crew” appeared first on IAM Union.

Dear IAM Union Family,

The Nov. 3 Election Day is approaching quickly, and we need all hands on deck to help elect candidates who will actually work for us, not for the billionaires and CEOs.

If you’ve been waiting to get involved, now is the time! Here are a few things you can do right now:

          1. Sign up to be a poll worker, and help your community vote safely and easily!

Our elections depend on people like us who make sure voting runs smoothly and everyone’s vote is counted. You can make sure we have safe, fair and efficient elections for all. Step up today to become a poll worker for the next election in your community.

Training will be provided, and some local jurisdictions may pay poll workers a stipend! Learn more: go.aflcio.org/ptp

          2. Find a volunteer event, either in person or virtual.

Early and absentee voting is underway in many states, and IAM Union members are already on the ground knocking on doors, staffing community events, making phone calls and sending text messages. If you are not able to attend an event in person, you can join a national virtual event like a phone bank. IAM Union members are a trusted part of our communities, so we need every member and supporter talking to their neighbors about the importance of voting in 2026. Find an event: mobilize.us/aflcio/

          3. Not sure how you want to help? Fill out the volunteer form.

If you’re not sure what you want to do yet, but you still want to be involved, sign the AFL-CIO’s volunteer form and someone will reach out to connect you with opportunities that work for you. Sign up here: go.aflcio.org/volunteer

People are engaged and excited, and we’re seeing sky-high energy and optimism across the country as we fight for real change for working people. IAM Union members have the power to make a difference. Please join us.

Thank you for your activism!

In solidarity,

The IAM Union Team

The post How IAM Union Members Can Get Involved in This Critical Election appeared first on IAM Union.

This testimonial was graciously submitted by Richley Delahay Jr., son of Winpisinger Center Facility and Services Manager Richley Delahay.

Brandi, an English lab who became an integral part of the Winpisinger Center, passed away on September 21, 2026. At a young age, Brandi attended training at Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines, the IAM’s favorite charity, with the hopes of becoming a service dog for someone in need.

While putting her whole heart into her classes, she struggled, realizing she was not cut out to be a service dog. She then decided to pursue a “career change.”

This career change ultimately led her to Chris Wagoner, the director of the W3 Center in Hollywood, Md. This was the moment Brandi knew she was home. As her career progressed, Brandi and Mr. Wagoner walked many miles together, welcoming many students into the W3 Center.

However, life would throw a curveball when we lost Mr. Wagoner to a courageous fight with cancer. Thankfully, when one door closes, another one opens, and that door opened into the Delahay household with Richley Delahay, the current manager of facilities at the W3 Center.

As Brandi settled into her new family home, she loved her long walks on the farm and simply sitting outside and soaking up the sunshine. Although Brandi knew she had a job to get back to – and she was ready to get to work!

Every morning, Brandi woke up at 5 a.m. and found a present for everyone – usually someone’s shoe! Then, she would head over and wake up Richley with a gentle nudge of her paw. Richley would then ask, “Are you ready to be an IAM Union dog today?” Brandi wagged her tail like a helicopter with excitement, as if she were trying to say, “YES! I’m ready!”

Every day, Brandi walked with Richley to the maintenance shop to read her list of duties for the day, and she was always eager to take on any challenge! She then went to greet her brothers and sisters at breakfast, hoping to score pets and be given the opportunity that a little piece of breakfast might accidentally fall off someone’s tray. She understood many of them were away from their homes attending class, and made it her mission to provide a little comfort and companionship. Next stop was the ladies’ office, where she made her rounds, said good morning, collected even more pets, and hopefully scored a treat or two.

As she accompanied her siblings to their classes, Brandi knew that one of the most important parts of her job was continuing her education as well. She attended classes to learn how to become the best guide dog she could be, so she could share what she learned with her fellow Guide Dogs of America doggy friends. Of course, being the best guide dog is exhausting work!

Brandi would eventually curl up for a well-deserved nap. Now and then, someone might even hear a little snore or two. Once she woke up, she often stretched with her belly up in the center of the room, patiently waiting for someone to finally give in and rub her belly.

For 10 wonderful years, Brandi proudly served as a true union member, providing special ways of bringing us all together with her kindness, love, companionship, and a little comedy – sometimes all that is needed to unite us in Solidarity. She truly was a friend and a beloved member of the IAM family.

While you may no longer hear her jingling along the halls of the W3, Brandi’s paw prints she left on our hearts will remain there forever. Rest easy, sister, you will be deeply missed.

The Goodest Girl

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The post Remembering Brandi: Beloved Winpisinger Furry Friend and GDA | TLC Ambassador appeared first on IAM Union.

International President Brian Bryant announced the appointment of Heather Hildebrand, formerly a District 60 Business Representative, to the position of Automotive Coordinator in the IAM Automotive Department. Hildebrand was previously an International Representative in that department. The appointment is effective October 1, 2026.

“Heather’s journey exemplifies what the IAM Union is all about. Every challenge we have given her has resulted in success for our members. In less than a decade she has grown from work on the shop floor, to leadership in the department, exemplifying the power of dedication and her relentless advocacy,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her passion for serving our members, standing strong on strike lines, and negotiating fair contracts reflects the heart of being a trade unionist. We are proud to see her bring this same drive to the Automotive Department in her new role as Automotive Coordinator.”

Hildebrand’s IAM career began in 2016 as a small machine operator at H.B. Fuller in Michigan Center, Mich., when she joined IAM Local 435. In the fall of 2016, she put her name in the running for the position of bargaining committee and was elected. In 2018, she sat at the negotiating table for the first time, and in 2024, she was able to negotiate her home contract as the lead negotiator.

In 2018, she also began to get more involved in the Local and became an auditor. In 2020, Hildebrand ran for Local president and was victorious. As president of IAM Local 435, she came into office with an active strike at Albion Industries. She delivered strike checks and walked the picket line with IAM members. 

“Heather’s commitment to delivering for our members, coupled with her professionalism and dedication, sets her apart,” said IAM Automotive Director Craig Hughes. “She has earned this promotion through her hard work and relentless commitment to our members. I am confident that her leadership will further strengthen the IAM Automotive Department as we continue to stand up for workers’ rights, secure fair contracts, and build a stronger future for our members.” 

In 2021, Hildebrand ran for District 60 business representative and was overwhelmingly elected. As a new Business Representative, she bounced between the strike line and contract negotiations on the same day within the first three months. Hildebrand also became a vice president for the Michigan Machinists Council and became politically active, meeting with members of Congress and senators.

The post Heather Hildebrand Appointed IAM Automotive Coordinator appeared first on IAM Union.

The 80th IAM Pennsylvania State Council Convention brought union delegates and labor leaders together in Philadelphia for three days of discussion focused on workers’ rights, legislative priorities, and political engagement.

Led by Council President Richie Howell, the convention featured IAM Union International President Brian Bryant, along with more than a dozen political figures and candidates.

One major issue discussed was proposed changes to overtime taxation affecting airline and railroad employees. Republican Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania’s 1st District spoke to the delegates about legislation addressing how overtime earnings are treated under federal tax law.

View photos here.

The convention also placed renewed emphasis on the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League, or MNPL. Speakers discussed how member contributions are used to support political activity and candidates aligned with organized labor’s priorities.

As the convention wrapped up, delegates were urged to take the information discussed in Philadelphia back to their local unions. Leaders emphasized member education, providing factual information about legislation and candidates, and encouraging union members to participate in elections.

The post IAM Pennsylvania State Council Convention Focuses on Labor, Legislation and Voter Engagement appeared first on IAM Union.

TUCSON, Ariz., Oct. 6, 2026 — IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) Local 933 members have opened contract negotiations with Raytheon in Tucson, Ariz., calling for an agreement that recognizes their highly skilled work and critical role in protecting national security.

The IAM, North America’s largest aerospace union, represents more than 2,200 workers at Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson. These workers manufacture sophisticated missile and defense systems that support the U.S. military and its allies.

“Our members at Raytheon build the defense systems our nation depends on, and they deserve a contract they can depend on, too,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “As North America’s largest aerospace union, we are bringing the strength and resources of the IAM to this fight. We stand firmly with Local 933 members as they work to secure the wages, benefits and security they have earned.”

The opening of negotiations follows months of preparation and member engagement. Local 933 gathered input through surveys, direct conversations and expanded digital outreach. Union leadership also held town halls and information sessions to hear members’ concerns and establish priorities for the bargaining table.

Members carried that unity into multiple solidarity rallies ahead of negotiations, sending a clear message to Raytheon management and the Tucson community: the workers behind these vital defense systems are standing together for a strong contract.

See photos: IAM Local 933 Members Rally Ahead of Contract Negotiations with Raytheon

“Local 933 members have made their priorities clear, and they have backed them up by standing shoulder to shoulder,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “Their skill and dedication help make Raytheon successful. The company needs to come to the table ready to negotiate an agreement that reflects those contributions and improves the lives of these workers and their families.”

Earlier this year, the Local 933 bargaining committee completed intensive Negotiation Prep training at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, Md. The program helped the committee develop bargaining proposals, analyze company finances and prepare strategies rooted in members’ priorities.

The committee is also receiving support from the IAM International Union and the IAM Western Territory throughout negotiations.

“A strong aerospace and defense industry starts with the skilled workers who build it,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “Investing in these workers through fair wages, strong benefits and secure jobs helps retain the experience and expertise this industry requires. Our bargaining committee is prepared, our members are engaged, and the IAM is committed to helping them win a contract that respects their work.”

For Local 933 leadership, the bargaining agenda reflects what members have shared in conversations across the workplace and during union meetings.

“We asked our members what matters most to them, and their answers will be guiding us at the table,” said IAM Local 933 President/Directing Business Representative Junior Alegria. “Our members take pride in what they build, and they want to know that their hard work will provide a good future for their families. The turnout at our union meetings, town halls, and rallies shows we are united and ready to fight for the contract we deserve.”

The post Arizona IAM Local 933 Opens Raytheon Negotiations, Demands Contract That Reflects Workers’ Critical National Defense Role appeared first on IAM Union.

IAM delegates attending the IAM Women’s and Young Workers Conference recently joined labor and community allies for a Workers vs. Billionaires march and rally through downtown Chicago, organized by the IAM’s Department of Rapid Response and Mobilization.

• Machinists union hits Chicago streets for ‘Workers vs. Billionaires’ march People’s World
• Watch the Facebook Live stream.
• See photos of the rally.

Over 500 Delegates and coalition partners marched from the Palmer House Hilton to Congress Plaza Garden for a rally emceed by IAM Young Workers and Women’s Director Dee Colbert. The labor leaders who spoke during the rally included:

• IAM District 142 Young Workers Committee Chair Joshua Charlier
• SEIU Local 1 President Genie Kastrup
• IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli
• IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett
• Unite Here Local 1 President Karen Kent
• Chicago Federation of Labor President Bob Reiter, Jr.
• Chicago Teachers Union and Illinois Federation of Teachers President Stacy Davis Gates.
• IAM International President Brian Bryant

IAM members stood in solidarity with Unite Here Local 1 members fighting to secure a strong contract. The action reinforced the conference’s message that developing new leaders must go hand in hand with mobilizing members and standing with workers in their struggles for dignity, respect, and economic justice. IAM delegates from across the country served as parade marshals.

The rally also celebrated a landmark victory, giving approximately 100,000 Illinois rideshare drivers a pathway to elect union representation through the IAM and SEIU Local 1 and bargain collectively for higher wages, improved benefits, stronger safety protections, and fairer working conditions.

Led by IAM International President Brian Bryant and other labor and community leaders, the speakers delivered a clear message: working people are ready to stand together against corporate greed and organize for an economy that works for everyone.

“Working people across America are suffering profoundly right now as corporate greed skyrockets and billionaires buy access to bend the rules against us,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The U.S. economy is being rigged against everyday people by robber baron tycoons and elites, creating an existential threat to our core American values of democracy, fairness, and freedom. American communities are being bled dry by billionaires who pit working people against each other, dividing us with artificial social fault lines so they can swindle us with economic injustice. The IAM Union will not stand back as basic worker protections are dismantled in this country. Instead, we’re launching our most aggressive election program yet, because the stakes are too high not to take unprecedented action.”

The rally was one of a growing number of Workers vs. Billionaires actions coordinated by IAM’s Department of Rapid Response and Mobilization, which helps build coalitions and turns out members for fights like this one across North America. 

The post IAM Women’s and Young Workers Delegates, Chicago Labor Show Up Strong for Workers vs. Billionaires Rally in Chicago appeared first on IAM Union.

Nearly 150 union members, labor leaders and allies gathered in Houston on Saturday for a Workers vs. Billionaires rally, bringing together unions from across Texas around a shared priority: electing candidates who support working people and advancing policies that improve their lives.

Hosted by the IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers), Texas AFL-CIO, Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation and local unions, the event combined a morning rally with neighborhood voter outreach. Participants gathered at the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation before heading into Houston communities to encourage voting and help residents learn about their choices in the upcoming elections.

WATCH VIDEO: Workers Vs. Billionaires Rally: Houston Workers Deserve Better

The rally emphasized that Houston workers deserve better – fair wages, secure retirement, strong workplace protections, and the freedom to organize. Speakers connected those priorities to decisions made by elected officials and the importance of ensuring workers have a voice in shaping public policy.

“Houston works because working people make it work,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Working people are putting in the hours, doing everything we’re supposed to do — and too many families are still struggling to get ahead. Meanwhile, billionaires and huge corporations are doing just fine.”

See Photos: Houston Workers vs. Billionaires: Rally & Block Walk

Attendees also heard from political candidates and elected officials, including U.S. Rep. Christian Menefee (TX-18), Texas Sen. Carol Alvarado (SD 6), Texas Reps. Mary Ann Perez (HD 144) and Lauren A. Simmons (HD 146), Harris County Attorney Abbie Kamin, Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia, Texas House District 138 candidate Tyler Smith and Harris County Judge candidate Letitia Plummer. The discussion focused on policies affecting working families and the importance of workers having a voice in decisions made in government.

The event brought members of different unions together to challenge corporate power and the growing influence of billionaires in elections. Their shared message was that working people need a government responsive to their concerns and an economy that rewards the people whose labor keeps communities running.

IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, who began her union career at IAM Local 2198 in Houston, spoke about her own experience with discriminatory immigration enforcement and the importance of standing together.

“The status of workers cannot be used to divide or hurt our members or their families,” said Cervantes. “It doesn’t matter where you were born. If you get up in the morning and go to work, you are a worker. And workers deserve better.”

“What happens outside the bargaining table matters, too. Because the people we elect make decisions that affect our jobs, our rights and our contracts,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Working people deserve a voice in the decisions that affect them.”

“We need leaders who will protect good union jobs in the railroad industry. Leaders who will put safety ahead of stock buybacks,” said TCU/IAM National President Matt Hollis. “Leaders who will make sure no merger goes through without real protections for the workers who run these railroads.”

The gathering also demonstrated the strength of Texas labor when unions work together across workplaces and industries. Participants united around concerns that extend beyond any one bargaining table, including rising living costs, job security and policies affecting workers and their families.

See photos: IAM District 141 Coverage

“We should be able to do more than just get by. Texas workers need leaders who are serious about providing real solutions to make it possible for us to get ahead,” said Texas AFL-CIO President Leonard Aguilar. “We know that political parties won’t save us, but each of us with our union movement can. We have the power to elect pro-worker candidates up and down the ballot across the state. And as goes Texas, so goes the country.”

“Texas is a battleground state in every sense of the word. We are ground zero for the fight for pro-worker policies, and we have a real chance to change our state this election,” said Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, AFL-CIO, Executive Director Hany Khalil.

Following the rally and block walk training, attendees took the conversation into Houston neighborhoods. Volunteers encouraged residents to participate in the upcoming elections and shared information about candidates and the issues affecting working families.

“No one is coming to save us. We’ve always had to save ourselves, so that’s what we’ll do. When we elect champions like James Talarico, Gina Hinojosa, and our incredible labor-endorsed candidates up and down the ballot, we will take this state from the billionaires and return it to the people,” said Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation Organizing Director, AFL-CIO Linda Morales.

See more photos: IAM District 142 Coverage

The Houston event was part of the IAM Union’s Workers vs. Billionaires campaign, a coordinated series of mobilization efforts leading up to the 2026 midterm elections. By bringing unions together and reaching voters directly, participants carried the rally’s message into the community: working people deserve a future in which their jobs, families and voices come first.

IAM members also serve on the committee for the Houston Workers Deserve Better campaign, joining workers and community allies to advocate for fair wages, safe workplaces, predictable schedules, and respect on the job.

View the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation’s full list of endorsements here.

The post IAM Union, Texas Labor Allies Bring Nearly 150 Together in Houston to Put Working People First appeared first on IAM Union.

Brian Trader shocks employees by ripping away healthcare insurance with four days notice to striking employees

Richmond, VA – The CEO for Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Brian Trader, abruptly cancelled healthcare coverage for striking workers effectively today, October 1, 2026, sparking sharp rebuke from community members and workers.

“It’s now been one month since Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s dedicated, talented employees first walked out on strike, and instead of sitting down at the bargaining table to negotiate with us in good faith – as he is legally required to do – Lewis Ginter’s CEO’s response has been instead to continue his retaliation against us by stripping healthcare coverage for us and our families with four days notice,” said Laura Lee Folman, a Youth and Program Logistics Coordinator at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden who has worked there for 22 years of service. “Lewis Ginter pays us poverty wages so low we cannot afford basic necessities, and nearly all of us have or currently do face food and housing insecurity. Responding to Lewis Ginter’s highly skilled and committed employees asking that our jobs pay us enough to live on by ripping away our ability to get life-saving prescriptions and daily medications we and our families rely on flies in the face of every value Lewis Ginter and our larger Richmond community stands for.”

Strikers walked out on September 2, 2026. The next day, attendance to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden was down two thirds, as the public resoundingly sided with strikers. Workers at Lewis Ginter are newly organized. They are on strike because Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden CEO Brian Trader has repeatedly refused to bargain in good faith by continuing to offer regressive wage proposals. A primary goal of negotiations for employees is raising all wages at LGBG closer to a living wage; Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden workers currently earn poverty wages as low as $15 per hour, with the average in unit wage being $17.52 per hour; the living wage for a single person with no children in Richmond, however, is $23.36 per hour. Lewis Ginter has spent $80,000 so far trying to bust its employees union, instead of agreeing to living wages.

Strikers and community members say that LGBG and Brian Trader are falling far short of living up to community values, or the values LGBG and Trader both claim to hold; specifically, integrity, social responsibility, and organizational sustainability.

Ironically, the first of the publicly-listed organizational “Core Comittments” LGBG cites on their website for their employees and public reads: “Our responsible management and supportive culture assure the Garden and team reach their full potential.”

The post Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden CEO Cancels Healthcare Coverage for Striking Workers, Sparking Outcry appeared first on IAM Union.

The 2027 IAM Scholarship Competition opened on Oct. 1, 2026 and will be accepting applications through Feb. 5, 2027. Entries are accepted online. The competition is open to members of the IAM with two years of continuous service and their children who are current high school seniors throughout the United States and Canada.

Interested parties can find a link to the online applications, rules, and general information on the IAM Scholarship Competition page or you can download the official calls below.

2027 Scholarship Competition Official Call and Eligibility: English | French | Eligibility

The IAM has a vocational-technical two-year scholarship for members and their children, which is also included in the scholarship awards.

The IAM Scholarship Fund, used exclusively to make these awards possible, was established by the 1960 IAM Grand Lodge Convention delegates.

You can learn more and apply online at the IAM Scholarship website.

The post 2027 IAM Scholarship Competition is Accepting Applications! appeared first on IAM Union.