The IAM is mourning the loss of Joe Abshire, a longtime employee, and advocate in the IAM’s Corporation for Re-Employment and Safety Training (CREST). Abshire was 72 years old.
Abshire initiated in IAM Local 946 (District 725) in Rancho Cordova, CA in 1974, serving on the IAM’s safety committee at an Aerojet Rocketdyne plant that produced volatile fuel which propels the nation’s nuclear missiles and NASA rockets.
Because of his experience working in dangerous environments, Abshire was recruited to assist IAM CREST in hazardous materials safety training as an associate instructor. Within a short time, Abshire accepted a position as the IAM’s liaison and instructor at the ICWUC Center for Workers Health and Safety Education in Cincinnati.
Abshire would go on to serve on the IAM CREST staff as an instructor, curriculum developer, grant manager, and assistant to the IAM CREST president.
“Brother Abshire dedicated his career to making sure working men and women doing dangerous work got home safe,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “He was a truly good man and union Brother who will be always remembered for his service to our great union. We send our deepest thoughts and condolences to his wife, Melody, and the entire family.”
“There are thousands of active and retired members who have benefitted from Brother Abshire’s decades of dedication to the craft of occupational safety and health,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Gary R. Allen. “His passion for educating workers to make their workplaces safer and his commitment to his union was unwavering.”
Approximately 150 IAM members gathered outside of Chicago at Hoffman Estates at the Bridges of Poplar Creek to play a round of golf to raise money for Guide Dogs of America-Tender Loving Canines. IAMLocal 1487 hosted this fun-filled event for its locals and other members from around the country. Members traveled in as far as Hawaii, California, Texas, and New England to help contribute to the IAM’s charity of choice. It takes close to $60,000 to raise these specially trained animals.
“With the money, we will raise today, we will be able to provide a dog like Sheldon to a veteran with PTSD, a child who has autism, or somebody whose blind or visually impaired,” said Zack Gittlen, Guide Dogs of America and Tender Loving Canines Manager of Marketing and Development. “It’s really going to change and transform their lives”
“This is the sixth successful outing that we’ve had and four of them have been sold out,” said Tony Licciardi, IAM Local 1487 President. “I can’t thank the members enough for showing up year after year.”
IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richard Johnsen and several Air Transport staff also attended to meet up with members for the tournament.
“It’s always fun to spend time talking to our members,” said Johnsen. “A lot of United Airlines members are here right now so lots of questions. It’s just a real feel-good day and we always can’t wait to come out and raise money for Guide Dogs Of America.”
Es esencial comprender las diferencias culturales de los miembros de IAM y adaptar nuestros esfuerzos de educación y divulgación según sea necesario. Al asegurarnos de identificar a los participantes para nuestros programas de español, que se llevan a cabo en el Centro de Educación y Tecnología William W. Winpisinger, el IAM puede educar a los miembros que a menudo están desatendidos o excluidos de los papeles de liderazgo de la logia local.
Cuando el mensaje de IAM es entregado por instructores y líderes con una historia cultural y un lenguaje compartidos, el mensaje resuena mucho más. El Centro Winpisinger ofrece programas en español que se enfocan en educación de liderazgo, negociación colectiva y organización.
Estos programas están ayudando a construir y fortalecer nuestro sindicato y a desarrollar futuros oficiales, activistas, organizadores y líderes. Los programas de español en el Centro Winpisinger brindan capacitación esencial para la próxima generación de líderes latinos y latinas de IAM.
Nosotros queremos animar a los miembros a que se unan con nosotros y participen en unos de nuestros programas en 2023 y en el último programa de este año 2022- Organizar (en Español) 11-16 de diciembre.
Si tienen alguna pregunta sobre los programas de Liderazgo en Español o necesita información adicional, comuníquese con Luis Silvas al (301) 373-8824 o lsilvas@iamaw.org. Tengan en cuenta que las inscripciones en cualquier programa de Liderazgo en espanol no cuentan contra las asignaciones regulares de su Logia Local para los programas de Liderazgo.
Instructores no presentes: Laura Ewen y Ed Osorio.
Join us in December for Organizing in Spanish
Understanding the cultural differences of IAM members and adapting our education and outreach efforts as needed is essential. By ensuring that we identify participants for our Spanish programs, which are held at the William W. Winpisinger Center for Education and Technology, the IAM is able to educate members who are often underserved or excluded from leadership roles in the local lodge.
When the IAM message is delivered by instructors and leaders with a shared cultural history and language, the message resonates much more. The Winpisinger Center offers programs in Spanish that focus on leadership education, collective bargaining, and organizing.
These programs are helping to build and strengthen our union and develop future officers, activists, organizers and leaders. The Spanish programs at the Winpisinger Center provide essential training for IAM’s next generation of Latino and Latina leaders.
The last Spanish language program being offered in 2022 is Organizing, which will be held December 11-16. We want to encourage members to join us for this program and to participate in our programs scheduled for 2023.
If you have questions about the Spanish language programs or need additional information, contact Instructor Luis Silvas at (301) 373-8824 or lsilvas@iamaw.org. Please note that enrollments in any
The Quadrennial Pride at Work Convention was recently held in Minneapolis, MN, at the Millennium Hotel Minneapolis.
The IAM works with constituency groups like Pride at Work and other ally groups to make positive legislative changes that benefit not only the LGBTQ+ community but all workers in general. Pride at Work educates and advocates on behalf of union and non-union members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) communities.
This year’s theme was “Out for Democracy,” highlighting how much democratic values underpin the LGBTQ+ equality movement and the labor movement. Like the labor movement, Pride at Work believes in every person’s right to a voice in their workplace and government. But those core democratic values are under attack from all sides.
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes spoke to the Pride at Work delegates during the opening plenary session.
“We came here to redouble our efforts in the fight to achieve social, economic justice and respect for all LGBTQ+ community and workers,” said Cervantes. “The IAM fights daily to ensure collective bargaining agreements cover and protect the rights of all IAM members, including our LGBTQ+ siblings.”
The IAM had a strong contingency of IAM members to hear from different speakers from the labor movement who advocate on behalf of LGBTQ+ workers.
“Labor’s voice is powerful when leaders speak out publicly against conditions our union family faces at work,” said IAM Women’s and Human Rights Director Julie Frietchen. “It can dramatically impact the lives of our members.”
IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. has appointed Elías Flamenco Rivera as a Headquarters Communications Representative, effective September 1, 2022.
Flamenco Rivera joins the IAM from the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union where he developed content and strategies to grow the union’s online influence and engagement among members by promoting key policy issues and organizing campaigns. Flamenco Rivera is fluent in both Spanish and English and will be integral in increasing the IAM’s outreach to Spanish-speaking members.
“We welcome Elías to the IAM’s Communications Department and look forward to the contributions he will make to our membership and beyond,” said Martinez. “Elías’ background in labor, non-profits and public and legislative affairs will be a great asset to best serve our members’ interests.”
Previously, Flamenco Rivera worked at a public affairs agency in Washington, DC, where he provided advice and strategic guidance regarding the use of digital media across the firm’s diverse clientele spanning from non-profits to prominent trade associations. Notably, Flamenco Rivera received PR News’ “Rising Stars 30 & Under Award” in 2019 as recognition for his consistent ability to deliver for his clients.
Flamenco Rivera worked at Public Citizen as a Program Associate coordinating digital media strategy to increase public and congressional awareness of the impact of trade policies. In 2016, he completed a public policy fellowship with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) and served at the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission in the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee and for then U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).
Flamenco Rivera has also worked for the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA), leading its digital organizing and online strategy efforts.
Flamenco Rivera graduated from Towson University with a B.A. in international studies and a minor in anthropology.
Elías Flamenco Rivera Nombrado Representante de Comunicaciones
El presidente de la IAM, Robert Martinez Jr., nombró a Elías Flamenco Rivera como representante de comunicaciones de la sede internacional, entrando en vigencia el 1 de septiembre de 2022.
Flamenco Rivera se une a la IAM proveniente de la Unión Internacional de Trabajadores Comerciales y de Alimentos (UFCW, por sus siglas en inglés), donde desarrolló contenido y estrategias para aumentar la influencia en línea de la unión y la participación de la membresía tales como la promoción de temas importantes de política y campañas de organización. Flamenco Rivera es bilingüe en español e inglés y será parte integral para aumentar el alcance de la IAM a los miembros de habla hispana.
“Le damos la bienvenida a Elías al Departamento de Comunicaciones de la IAM y esperamos con interés las contribuciones que hará a nuestra membresía y mucho más”, dijo Martínez. “La experiencia de Elías en asuntos laborales, en organizaciones sin fines de lucro, y en temas públicos y legislativos será un gran recurso para servir mejor a los intereses de nuestros miembros”.
Anteriormente, Flamenco Rivera trabajó en una agencia de asuntos públicos en Washington, DC, donde brindó asesoramiento y orientación estratégica a diversos clientes con respecto al uso de los medios digitales, abarcando desde organizaciones sin fines de lucro hasta asociaciones comerciales destacadas. En particular, Flamenco Rivera recibió el “Premio Rising Stars 30 & Under” de PR News en 2019 como reconocimiento por su capacidad constante para cumplir con sus clientes.
Flamenco Rivera trabajó en Public Citizen como asociado coordinando la estrategia de medios digitales para generar conciencia pública y del Congreso sobre el impacto de las políticas de los tratados de libre comercio. En 2016, completó una pasantía de política pública con el Instituto del Comité de Congresistas Hispanos (CHCI, por sus siglas en inglés) y se desempeñó en la Comisión de Derechos Humanos de Tom Lantos en el Comité de Asuntos Exteriores de la Cámara de Representantes de los EE. UU. y para el entonces representante de los EE. UU. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).
Flamenco Rivera también ha trabajado para el Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA, por sus siglas en inglés), liderando sus esfuerzos de organización digital y estrategia en línea.
Flamenco Rivera se graduó de Towson University con una licenciatura en estudios internacionales y una especialización en antropología.
NEW YORK, September 1, 2022 –The staff and management of Bernheimer Architecture are proud to announce that the employees of Bernheimer have organized the first private sector union of architectural professionals in the United States under a voluntary recognition agreement, becoming some of the newest members of the IAMAW through their AWU (Architectural Workers United) campaign.
We recognize that both the employer and employees in the field of Architectural work face constraints and challenges beyond the control of any individual firm, and that by working together we can uplift the profession and industry in ways that we could not by acting alone.
Reflecting on these challenges and opportunities, we will embark on this collective work centered on the following values:
Respect
We believe that all of the work we do begins with treating each other with unconditional respect. If we want to create safe, beautiful spaces that truly benefit the communities they are designed for, we must first recognize the unique value that each team member brings to our work.
Value
If we respect our team, we will also fully value their labor. This means equitable compensation for all, regardless of race, gender, or position.
Growth
We also recognize that a healthy profession begins with a healthy education. The work we do in creating an effective office structure and work environment is directly connected to how we educate future workers.
Transparency
We seek clarity in how decisions are made internally and externally, ranging from individual employee career development to complex project funding sources.
Impact
The complexity of the problems facing architecture and the built environment are enormous, from the pervasive influence of capital to devastating climate change. Though we, as one practice, cannot impact these forces alone, we believe that forming and recognizing this union is a crucial step towards building solidarity industry-wide and will have a meaningful impact.
Architecture is a creative and wide-ranging discipline, bringing together many of the sectors and challenges we face today. Within this discipline, BA has been a progressive office at the fore-front of design, craft, and quality, affordable housing. Though we are stepping into uncharted territory in many ways, we are overwhelmingly excited, and hopeful, to bolster the values that make BA special. We encourage and invite other practices to join us in this endeavor to reshape the industry at large.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers is one of the largest and most diverse industrial trade unions in North America, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.
This past week in Tucson, AZ, IAM District 19 railroad delegates, officers, and guests gathered to conduct the business for its 9th quadrennial convention.
Delegates from approximately 47 Local Lodges from around the country arrived on August 21 to meet, hear and gather information from many speakers. Three IAM delegates Mike “Mouse” Reilly (Local 2600), Carl Hill (Local 478), and Joshua Baez (Local 226) are featured in the video, informing the membership about what they learned.
Josh Hartford, IAM Special Assistant to the International President, gave a detailed in-depth report about the state of the rail industry. He went on to mention how District 19 and the Transportation Communications Union (TCU/IAM) have their members’ backs and the Rail Division has become “a powerhouse in the rail industry and getting more powerful every day.”
During the four-day convention, and under the direction of IAM District 19 President and Directing General Chairman Kyle Loos, delegates were assigned to various committees to give reports which were discussed and voted on by the delegation.
“I want to express sincere thanks and appreciation to all the hard work the delegates have put in conducting the business of the District Lodge,” said Loos.
STRONGSVILLE, Ohio, Aug. 31, 2022 – A strike that began on Monday, Aug. 29 has ended for 104 Machinists Union Local 439 (District 54) members who work at Eberhard Manufacturing Co. in Strongsville.
The highlights of the new contract:
3-year collective bargaining agreement
Wage increases up to 21 percent in the first year of the agreement.
Entering the IAM Benefit Trust Fund medical plan and saving up to $3.25 per hour on medical coverage for them and their families in the first year alone. The majority of our members in the family plan will save over $20,000 in their employee share premium costs throughout the life of the agreement.
100% company paid for eye and dental
Capped overtime hours
A healthy IAM 401(k) Savings Plan with company non-discretionary contributions and a match – average of $6,000 a year!
Maintained no tiers in wages
Increased vacation time for new employees
Improved working conditions and safety language
“Our members made that most difficult decision to withhold their labor to improve their working conditions, benefits, and wages,” said IAM District 54 President and Directing Business Representative T. Dean Wright, Jr. “When District 54’s members take it to the streets, our community knows our members are fighting for themselves, their families, the community, and the entire labor movement. Our members will be compensated for their skills and dedication to their employer throughout the past three years. Thank you to our Local 439 members and officers for their solidarity and unionism.”
“Congratulations to these members,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “Their rally for better working conditions and benefits is a good example of how solidarity works. My thanks go out to PDBR Wright, BR Regina Wright and the negotiating committee for a job well done. This effort took solid leadership. The proof is in the outcome.”
IAM members at Eberhard Manufacturing produce hardware products that are used throughout the world.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers is one of the largest and most diverse industrial trade unions in North America, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.
The Machinists Union’s Headquarters building in Upper Marlboro, MD recently passed the 30-year mark of serving as the Grand Lodge for the IAM. The building houses many IAM departments that serve the membership under the direction of the International President, General Secretary-Treasurer, and Resident General Vice President.
The four-level building, which opened in August 1992, has been lauded for being designed, as stated in the October 1993 edition of Architecture magazine, as a “veritable collage of machine images—from a jetliner’s fuselage to rocket-launching gantries from Cape Canaveral.”
When the IAM was planning a move from its 40-year headquarters in Washington, DC’s Dupont Circle, union leaders wanted the new building to “stand as a visible statement of what IAM members do for a living,” according to Architecture.
IAM members “take disorder every day and make order out of it,” said Joseph Boggs, design principle of the building, upon its opening.
“They take raw shards of metal, scraps of steel, and turn them into beautiful, refined pieces of machinery,” continued Boggs. “This building is a metaphor for what they do.”
The building is located across the street from Joint Base Andrews, where IAM-built jets, including Air Force One, are serviced by IAM members. The building was entirely constructed by union members.
“The future belongs to those who face it boldly, bravely, and on its own terms,” wrote the late IAM International President George Kourpias after the building’s opening. “From its open, spacious design symbolizing the skills of members in the metal trades, to its proximity to the U.S. Capitol—a short 20 minutes away—IAM Headquarters combines flexibility with functionality.”
One of many highlights in the building is the Executive Council Room, which features a curved metal ceiling that resembles the underside of a 747’s wing. The walls are glass cases filled with models of products produced by IAM members, including planes, tractors, rockets, and submarines.
“For all its precision, the building ultimately serves and celebrates the people who create the machines, and not the machines themselves,” wrote Edward Gunn in The Architect. “From any vantage point, one can see a continual parade of passersby—union members on the stairs, in the atrium, one flight below in another part of the building.”
The IAM Grand Lodge staff looks forward to seeing members for years to come as they tour IAM Headquarters after participating in programs at the IAM’s crown jewel, the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center.
