As record-breaking temperatures continue to put working people at risk across the country, the Trump Administration is pulling back protections for workers from one of the fastest-growing workplace hazards: extreme heat.

Recent reports say the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has reduced the heat-focused inspections and enforcement efforts that were previously expanded under the Biden administration. Now, the Congress Republicans are blocking the first-ever federal workplace heat standard proposed by the Biden administration in 2024, which would establish dire nationwide protections for workers.

For the IAM Union, this isn’t politics; it’s about workers’ lives. The Trump administration and Congress Republicans are shamefully putting workers at higher risk and choosing corporate interests over workers’ safety.

“The job of government is to protect working people—not make it easier for employers to cut corners at workers’ expense,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “When temperatures reach dangerous levels, employers have a responsibility to provide the protections workers need to stay safe while doing their jobs. Rolling back heat safety efforts puts lives at risk, and the IAM Union will continue fighting for enforceable standards that ensure every worker makes it home safely.”

The Biden administration’s proposal of the nation’s first comprehensive federal heat standard entails simple but necessary requirements for employers: develop a heat illness prevention plan, provide workers with access to drinking water and shaded/cooled recovery areas, allow paid rest breaks during periods of extreme heat, educate workers and supervisors on the signs of heat illness, and have a procedure for when workers show symptoms of heat stress. The proposal was expected to protect tens of millions of both indoor and outdoor workers.

“Whether you’re on the tarmac, in a hangar, or on the factory floor, extreme heat is a real hazard,” said IAM Union Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Every worker deserves common-sense protections that keep them safe on the job

Now, while heat is already the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States, Congressional Republicans have advanced the Heat Workforce Standards Act to block implementation of the Biden-era rule, arguing that those basic federal standards impose a burden on businesses.

No worker should have to choose between earning a paycheck and risking their life in dangerous heat, and worker safety should never depend on the political climate.

The IAM Union will continue standing with labor allies across the country to demand enforceable, national heat standards and stronger OSHA enforcement to ensure employers protect workers from preventable illness and death.

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As time ticks down to the midterms, politicians met with IAM delegates Saturday to gain support from the Mid-Atlantic’s most powerful labor voting bloc, the Maryland & D.C. State Council.

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The IAM Union helped usher in a historic partnership aimed at raising labor standards for working in the Dominican Republican. The agreement, facilitated by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), is focused on strengthening international solidarity and growing opportunities for workers throughout the Americas.

The landmark Memorandum of Understanding between the ITF, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism and Dominican labor unions commits the parties to work together to strengthen labor standards, improve transportation systems and support sustainable tourism throughout the country.

Representing the IAM Union were:

• Richie Johnsen, Air Transport Territory General Vice President
• David Sullivan, Eastern Territory General Vice President
• Edison Fraser, Air Transport Territory Chief of Staff
• Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff
• Tom Regan, Special Assistant to the International President
• James Carlson, Air Transport Territory Coordinator
• Zach Coker, District 142 Secretary-Treasurer
• Lorraine Fraser, District 142 General Chair
• Troy Rivera, District 141 Assistant General Chair

Watch a video message from GVP Johnsen here.

Throughout the meetings, delegates discussed many of the issues shaping the future of work and transportation, including artificial intelligence, engaging young workers, fisheries, civil aviation, tourism, organizing and strengthening international solidarity.

The Memorandum of Understanding marks a first-of-its-kind collaboration aligning the Dominican Republic’s government, the ITF and Dominican labor unions around a shared commitment to improving labor standards and ensuring the country’s tourism industry grows in a way that benefits working people.

“This agreement is about making sure economic growth benefits workers,” said Johnsen, a member of the ITF’s Executive Board. “When workers in the Dominican Republic have stronger rights, better wages and safer workplaces, it helps raise standards across our industry. Our members service flights that bring millions of travelers to the Dominican Republic every year. Stronger labor standards and a stronger transportation system there help support good union jobs and create a level playing field for workers throughout North America and the Caribbean.”

Tourism is one of the Dominican Republic’s largest industries, with millions of visitors traveling to the country each year aboard airlines serviced by IAM Union members. The partnership recognizes that sustainable tourism depends on the workers who safely move travelers every day.

“The IAM Union has always believed that solidarity doesn’t stop at the border,” said Sullivan, who serves as North American Chair for Fisheries in the ITF. “When workers in the Dominican Republic win stronger rights and better working conditions, it helps lift standards for workers everywhere.”

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PORTLAND, July 30, 2026 — IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) District W24 and Local 1005 released the following statement on Daimler’s decision to discontinue its manufacturing operations in the Portland, Oregon, area:

“We are saddened by the loss of IAM Union jobs at the facility, which have provided security, competitive wages, solid retirement benefits, health care, and careers for hundreds of members over the decades. 

“The IAM’s contract with Daimler covers key issues related to a closure, including severance, retiree health care, and benefit extensions, which the union said it will enforce. The IAM and Daimler are also set to begin bargaining next week over the effects of the company’s decision to close.

“IAM District W24 and Local 1005 still have our members’ best interests in mind and will continue to fight for them, even in these difficult circumstances. 

“The IAM said it will communicate with members through its website and text messages and will hold an in-person meeting to answer questions on Aug. 15.

“Our employer’s decision to leave the Portland area does not remove the heart and soul that our members have put into their work at Daimler. And the IAM will support and fight for our members regardless of any decision their employer makes.”

The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

The post IAM District W24, Local 1005 Respond to Daimler’s Decision to Close Portland-Area Manufacturing Operations appeared first on IAM Union.

IAM Union benefits should help support your future, and that includes your educational goals. 

Through the IAM College Benefit powered by EBS, IAM Union members and their family members can access exclusive tuition discounts from a network of regionally accredited colleges and universities.

If you are looking to: 

• Finish a degree you started years ago 
• Earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree 
• Advance your career 
• Change career paths 
• Support your family’s educational future

The IAM College Benefit has the tools to help you! 

Highlights Include: 

• Flexible online programs
• Multiple degree levels available
• Transfer-friendly pathways
• Programs designed for busy schedules
• Dedicated support from inquiry through graduation 

Featured Opportunities: 

• Franklin University U-Learn Unlimited offers associate and bachelor’s courses for just $5,250 per calendar year. 
• Albright College Unlimited coursework in select bachelor’s and master’s programs for $5,250 per calendar year. 

Take the next step today.

IAM Union wants you to be aware that these benefits exist and that they may be helpful to you. IAM Union, however, is not a party to any agreement entered into by you and EBS or the school and is not responsible in any way for the operation or administration of any program.

The post IAM Union Members Can Save Thousands on Higher Education appeared first on IAM Union.

IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes has appointed longtime Local 2413 leader Stan Theofilaktidis as an International Auditor, effective Aug. 1, 2026. Theofilaktidis will help ensure the financial stewardship of IAM locals and districts in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and the state of Vermont.

“Stan has dedicated more than two decades to serving IAM members with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to our union’s values. His experience managing local finances, representing members, and leading at both the local and district levels has prepared him well for this role at the International,” said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes. “I have every confidence that Stan will help strengthen the financial stewardship and accountability that our members expect and deserve throughout Eastern Canada and Vermont.”

Theofilaktidis became a member of IAM Local 2413 in 2005 when he began working as an aircraft refueller with Consolidated Aviation (Allied) at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Early in his career, Theofilaktidis served as a Shop Steward, representing members in labor relations meetings, collective bargaining negotiations, and on the Shop Committee. His commitment to advocating for members quickly led to greater leadership responsibilities.

In 2008, Theofilaktidis was elected Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Local 2413. Throughout his tenure, he has played a key role in the Local’s financial administration, governance, and representation of the membership.

In 2011, Theofilaktidis joined the Executive Board of IAM Transportation District 140 as the Central Region Service Member. In recent years, he was appointed Vice President of District 140, where he continues to advocate for IAM members across the transportation sector.

“Strong financial oversight is a proud pillar of our strong union, and Stan understands that responsibility firsthand,” said Assistant Secretary to the General Secretary-Treasurer Paul Kendall. “He has earned the respect of members and leaders alike, and I look forward to working alongside him as he helps ensure our locals and districts continue operating with financial transparency and accountability.”

Theofilaktidis has also been actively involved in political action campaigns that impact both the federal and provincial labor sectors in Canada. Beyond his union responsibilities, he is a dedicated supporter of Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines.

“I’ve had the opportunity to see Stan’s commitment to the IAM over many years, and he has always led by example. Whether serving his local, District 140, or supporting causes like Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines, he approaches every responsibility with proficiency and a genuine desire to help others,” said Special Assistant to the General Secretary-Treasurer Bryan Pinette. “He will be a tremendous asset to the Office of the General Secretary-Treasurer and to the members he’ll serve in his new role.”

Theofilaktidis is a graduate of the University of Guelph in Ontario, where he completed a three-year diploma program. His years of union experience, leadership, and dedication to serving working people continue to make him a respected advocate of the IAM.

The post Stan Theofilaktidis Appointed IAM International Auditor appeared first on IAM Union.

Contact: Jess Kamm Broomell, 412-562-2444, jkamm@usw.org; Jonathan Battaglia, 202-579-3212, jbattaglia@iamaw.org

PITTSBURGH – United Steelworkers (USW) International President Roxanne Brown and IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) International President Brian Bryant today sent a letter to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer, urging him to reconsider tariffs on Canadian goods and instead employ a trade policy built on the long history and unique relationship the two nations share.

 “While it’s true that workers and their communities have suffered greatly from decades of so-called free trade, Canada has never been the problem,” said Brown. “Our two nations share a deep collaboration built on decades of economic integration as well as intelligence and defense cooperation. Rather than imposing further tariffs through Section 338 or any other mechanism, we should instead work together with our Canadian allies to limit illegal trade practices and advance our shared prosperity.”

“Unfair trade has no place in the global economy, and the IAM Union supports strong trade enforcement that protects human rights, defends good-paying jobs, and holds bad actors accountable,” said Bryant. “But trade policy should also strengthen partnerships with allies that share our commitment to fair labor standards. Canada is one of our closest economic partners, and we urge the administration to work with the Canadian government to preserve the integrated manufacturing relationship that supports workers on both sides of the border.”

President Donald Trump on July 20 signed three proclamations imposing additional 50 percent tariffs on several Canadian products, which will take effect in 30 days. This and other trade actions taken by the United States under this administration have disrupted aspects of the bilateral trade relationship and created uncertainty for producers and workers in both countries. Total merchandise trade between the two countries exceeded $700 billion last year.

“USW members in Canada proudly work in coordination with their U.S. counterparts, with materials and components historically passing back and forth across our border several times before becoming a finished good,” said Marty Warren, who serves as the USW National Director for Canada. “Canadian workers also understand what’s at stake for their jobs and communities if we fail to curb the illegal trade practices that are fueling global overcapacity. Providing a united front against bad actors will help advance the interests of workers in both countries.”

“Canadian and American IAM Union members build some of the most advanced aerospace and manufacturing products in the world together every day,” said IAM Union Canadian General Vice President David Chartrand. “Our economies and our members succeed when the United States and Canada work together as partners. As these trade measures move forward, we encourage both governments to continue strengthening that relationship and protecting the manufacturing jobs that support working families.”

The unions in their letter to Greer urged him to prioritize confronting countries like China rather than “drive a further wedge between our nations” and noted that “our unions have supported several of the administration’s trade actions. We will continue our work to abandon the outdated and misguided free trade orthodoxy in favor of trade policies that address the reality of markets and the policies of many of our trade partners.”

Read the full text of the letter here.

The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of people in tech, higher education, public sector and service occupations.

The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members in aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across North America.

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The post USW, IAM Urge USTR to Reconsider Canada Trade Policy appeared first on IAM Union.

The IAM Wood, Pulp and Paper Council is inviting IAM Union members, friends, family and barbecue enthusiasts to fire up their grills for the 7th Annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ Barbecue Competition, a virtual two-day event taking place Aug. 15 and 16, 2026. Participants can compete on either day, so if you’re unable to cook on Saturday, you’ll still have the opportunity to join the competition on Sunday.

Watch the promo video here. 

Competitors can enter the Chicken Champion or Rib Champion categories for $100, or choose the Prime Entry for $150, which includes both categories and a bonus opportunity to compete in the Cooks Choice Champion division. The Cooks Choice category welcomes nearly anything that can be grilled, including seafood, steak, vegetables, pizza and more.

Sign up to compete or sponsor the event here.

Entries will be judged on appearance, presentation, moisture, smoke rings, and tenderness, while Cooks Choice entries will also be evaluated on creativity and uniqueness. Awards will be presented for Grand Champion, category champions, Cooks Choice Champion, and Best of Each Territory.

The competition is sponsored by IAM International President Brian Bryant, with proceeds benefiting Guide Dogs of America/Tender Loving Canines.

Participants can register by visiting iam4.me/bbq2026.

Join us for a great event!

The post Join Us for the Wood, Pulp and Paper Council’s 7th Annual ‘Chillin’ & Grillin’ Barbecue Competition appeared first on IAM Union.

IAM District 9 hosted a successful Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC) Clay Shoot on July 11 at NILO Farms in Brighton, Ill., bringing together 64 shooters for a day of friendly competition in support of the IAM’s favorite charity.

“This event is about more than sporting clays—it’s about changing lives. Every participant and sponsor helps provide greater independence and opportunity for individuals who rely on GDA | TLC,” said IAM District 9 Business Representative Darren Bierman. “We’re proud to bring our community together for a day of friendly competition while supporting the incredible mission of Guide Dogs of America. District 9 would like to thank everyone who donated and participated to make this day possible.”

GDA|TLC recipient Kim Boehm attended with her service dog Jackson to share their story and represent the value of supporting the organization. 

The event featured outstanding marksmanship from participants across the district. The first-place team, sponsored by IAM Local 660, posted a score of 378 and included Darren Bierman, Derek Bierman, Zach Bertles, Ryan Reno and Garrett Gerdes.

Two teams sponsored by IAM Local 41 rounded out the top three. The second-place team scored 376 and consisted of Aaron Schlemmer, Matt Malone, Dave Brown, Eric Buchhite, and Scott Beyer. The third-place team finished with a score of 358 and included Chris Steinkuehler, Will Roach, Austin Quirin, Mike Shatley, and Ethan Brown.

The top three teams were awarded trophies, as well as the top three individual competitors: Matt Malone of IAM Local 41 with a score of 88, followed by Derek Bierman of IAM Local 660 with a score of 83 and Ari Alexanian of Olin Winchester who scored an 83 to earn third place.

Sponsors donated an assortment of raffle prizes that competitors bought tickets to win. The top prizes, three shotguns, were donated by the District 9 staff, IAM Midwest Territory International Representative Jen Kahl, and District 9 Business Representative Darren Bierman. 

Events like the District 9 Clay Shoot help raise critical funds for Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines, which provides service dogs and training at no cost to individuals who are blind, visually impaired, veterans and children with autism.

The post District 9 Clay Shoot Raises Funds for IAM’s Favorite Charity appeared first on IAM Union.

The Southern Territory’s fundraising efforts for the 2028 IAM International Convention, which will be hosted in New Orleans, received a boost as IAM Union members and supporters helped raise more than $32,000 through the Kimber Rapide Dawn 1911 raffle.

The winning ticket was drawn on July 1, during the Southern Territory Staff Training Session.

Congratulations to Brother Douglas Pribble of IAM Local 10 (District 2020), whose name was selected as the winner. Pribble has been notified and has chosen to receive the Kimber Rapide Dawn 1911 pistol rather than the cash option.

The raffle is one of several fundraising initiatives supporting the 2028 IAM International Convention, helping ensure a successful event that will bring together IAM delegates, staff, and leaders from across North America in New Orleans.

“We want to thank every IAM Union member, retiree and supporter who purchased a ticket and helped make this raffle such a tremendous success,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “We are already busy preparing for an outstanding 2028 IAM International Convention in New Orleans that will showcase the strength of the Southern Territory and the entire IAM Union. Congratulations to Brother Douglas Pribble, and thank you to everyone who made this fundraiser possible.”

Be on the lookout soon for the next Southern Territory fundraising raffle benefiting the 2028 IAM International Convention!

The post Southern Territory Raffle Helps Power 2028 IAM International Convention – Another Chance to Win Soon! appeared first on IAM Union.