A day with IAM Cares: How a Montreal non-profit is transforming lives, one job at a time

When the IAM Union communications team visited IAM Cares – AIM CROIT in Montreal, they expected to learn about employment services. What they discovered was something far more powerful; a vibrant community working every day to restore confidence, dignity, and purpose to people living with sensory and physical disabilities.

At first glance, the office looks like any other: staff gathered in morning huddles, employees focused on computer screens, quiet one-on-one coaching sessions in progress. But behind the scenes is a team dedicated to one mission: breaking isolation and helping Montrealers with physical and sensory disabilities find their way back into the workforce.

Patronized by IAM Union and funded 100% by Service Québec, IAM Cares – AIM CROIT offers free, personalized support to citizens, permanent residents and refugees of Montreal aged 16 and up.

Clients live with a wide range of sensory, physical and invisible disabilities: from amputations and diabetes to chronic pain. For many, isolation is a bigger barrier than any resume gap.

That’s where AIM CROIT steps in.

Led primarily by women, the staff includes employment counsellors, partnership coordinators, trainers, and admin support who guide clients through every step of their journey. Services include personalized coaching, resume building, career planning, and access to a fully equipped computer lab. In their multiservice training rooms, clients not only build skills, they build confidence.

People often come to us feeling disconnected,” said Executive Director Christina Cobein during the IAM Union team’s visit. “We’re here to help them reconnect: with work, with routine, and with their own sense of purpose.

This year, IAM Cares – AIM CROIT celebrates its 35th anniversary! A milestone marking decades of dedication. Over the years, they’ve helped thousands of individuals find meaningful employment. But their true impact goes far beyond job placement: by providing structure, community and quite often, mental support, IAM Cares – AIM CROIT empowers people to regain their independence and envision a brighter future.

IAM Cares – AIM CROIT isn’t just helping people find work, it’s transforming lives, creating opportunities, and proving every day that inclusion works.

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One Union, No Borders: IAM’s 2025 Staff Conference Builds Power in Quebec City

The IAM Union rolled into beautiful Quebec City this year for its 2025 Staff Conference; and wow, what a week it was!

From inspiring speakers to powerful conversations, this event brought together IAM leadership, staff, and representatives from both sides of the border in the name of unity, solidarity, and moving forward together.

The energy was strong right from the start. The Chief of Staff, Ralph Martin kicked things off, setting the tone for what turned out to be a powerful few days. Then the General Vice-President of the Canadian Territory, David Chartrand, took the mic to welcome everyone, touching on the big picture: how important it is to gather like this, especially in times where working people are facing serious challenges. His message was clear: solidarity as an International union is how we push through.

One of the most powerful moments? When the IAM Union’s Executive Council showed up from the U.S. in person to support their Canadian siblings in the labour movement. At a time when there’s so much noise trying to divide us, their presence was a reminder that true solidarity doesn’t stop at the border. The International President, Brian Bryant  highlighted that the IAM is, and always will be, an international union and that it’s always going to be here for workers, Canadian and American alike.

We also heard from General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, who gave us a peek at some exciting things the union has in the works. Lots of energy around the future and the projects that will keep IAM growing and evolving.

On the communications front, the IAM Communications Representatives, Vanessa Breidy, gave a great talk about why strong communication matters in our movement. They broke down how social media and rebranding are helping the union connect better with members, and the world.

There was also a great session on the Winpisinger Center (W3), presented by the Director of the W3, Mary McHugh, showing how education is a key piece of our power. From leadership training to building skills, W3 is all about equipping our people for the fight ahead.

Jennifer O’Bamaswin Director & Leader, First Nations and Inuit Relations Political Columnist, RDI, took the stage and brought a fresh and powerful perspective, speaking on Indigenous realities.

Chief of Staff, Ralph Martin, presented the IAM Union’s favourite charity, Guide Dogs of America and Tender Loving Canines came through. His presentation showed the amazing ways they’re helping people live fuller, more independent lives.

We had a session from the Communications Director, Jonathan Battaglia, who broke down how important global communication has become for the union, and how we keep our message strong, clear, and unified across countries and cultures.

Our Research Analyst, Roya Rismankar, presented crucial insights into the tariffs currently affecting workers, shedding light on the economic challenges many of our members are navigating.

We also heard from our Political Action International Representative, Derek Ferguson, who laid out the political landscape and the results of the recent Canadian elections and their impact on workers. The message was clear: political engagement isn’t optional. It’s essential.

Chief of Staff Ralph Martin also walked us through administrative procedures and essential forms. Important tools that keep the union organized and efficient behind the scenes.

One of the most talked-about and moving moments came when Fae Johnstone, Executive Director of the Society of Queer Momentum, took the stage. She spoke powerfully about what it means to be trans in today’s world, emphasizing resilience, inclusion, and the need for solidarity across all identities. Her voice brought urgency and inspiration to the table, reminding us that a truly united labour movement includes everyone.

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IAM Opens the Floor to Queer Perspectives: A First with Fae Johnstone

At this year’s IAM Union Staff Conference in beautiful Quebec City, a lot of firsts happened, but one moment stood out as truly groundbreaking.

For the first time in IAM history, the union invited a trans rights advocate to speak directly to leadership, staff, and members. That speaker was none other than Fae Johnstone, Executive Director of the Society of Queer Momentum, and her presence sparked one of the most talked-about and eye-opening sessions of the week.

Why did IAM make this move? Because it matters.

The union proudly represents a diverse membership, including many from the LGBTQIA2S+ community. As an international organization committed to solidarity, we knew it was time to go deeper: to listen, to learn, and to make sure we’re building a union culture that doesn’t just tolerate difference, but embraces it.

And Fae delivered.

In a bold, heartfelt, and deeply informative talk, she pulled back the curtain on what it means to be trans in today’s world and what real allyship looks like, especially within the labour movement. She didn’t sugarcoat the challenges. From misinformation to outright hostility, trans folks, particularly trans youth, are facing mounting pressure and harm.

But Fae’s message wasn’t one of despair. It was one of empowerment and education.

She spoke passionately about how her organization is working to protect future generations by advocating for inclusive education, public awareness, and policy change. “Being trans is a choice that deserves respect,” she told the room. “We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking to be seen, to be heard, to be respected and to be safe.”

Her words hit home.

As union members, we know what it means to fight for dignity, fairness, and a better future. Fae reminded us that those same values extend to our queer and trans siblings and that showing up for them means more than just words. It means learning, asking questions, and confronting our own blind spots.

She challenged us not to look down on what we don’t understand but to lean in. To embrace our differences, not fear them. To treat gender identity and expression not as political talking points, but as human realities worthy of compassion and respect.

For many in the room, it was an emotional experience. It sparked conversations, reflection, and, most importantly, a commitment to do better, for all members.

By the end of her session, the room wasn’t just applauding Fae Johnstone’s words, they were changed by them.

This was more than a speech. It was a moment.

A moment that showed IAM is ready to walk the talk when it comes to equity and inclusion.

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Building Canada’s Industrial Strategy: IAM Union at the Business Council of Canada

On May 27, General Vice President (GVP) of the IAM Union in Canada, David Chartrand, joined national leaders at a closed-door session hosted by the Canadian Club of Toronto and the Business Council of Canada. This meeting brought together CEOs from major firms like Bombardier, ATCO, and Nokia, alongside government officials, union representatives and business representatives to discuss how to build a modern, sovereign industrial strategy for Canada.

With Canada preparing to boost defence spending and meet its NATO commitments, including a pledge to invest 2% of GDP in defence by 2030, the timing of the conversation couldn’t be more critical.

Speaking on behalf of labour, GVP Chartrand stressed that Canada’s defence base has been neglected for too long. “This isn’t just about national security,” he said. “It’s about economic opportunity, strategic independence, and good Canadian jobs.

He called for urgent action to:

  • Strengthen Canada’s ability to defend itself without relying on foreign infrastructure
  • Invest in domestic manufacturing and workforce development
  • Source steel, aluminum, and critical components from within Canada
  • Rebuild supply chains to support long-term innovation and global competitiveness

During the meeting, the federal government was also urged to increase investment in Canada’s military capacity not just to reduce dependence on foreign allies, but to strengthen our own readiness and become a more capable, strategic partner on the world stage.

Canada is one of only four countries that can design and assemble a full aircraft. “We were once an industrial powerhouse, and there’s no reason we can’t be again. We’ve got the skilled labour and the institutional knowledge – we just need to activate it with the right strategy,” he added.

“To succeed, we’ll need a whole-of-nation approach. Our government cannot do it alone. Business cannot drive this in a vacuum. And, of course, workers must be part of the solution from day one,” Chartrand emphasized, highlighting the importance of collaboration in building a resilient industrial future.

The event highlighted a growing consensus: Canada must take bold steps to secure its place in a changing world and steps that will require vision, coordination, and a commitment to invest in the talent and capacity that already exists across the country.

One thing is clear if Canada wants to protect its sovereignty and economic future, the time to act is now.

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Bernie Wood Honoured with Art Coulter Award for Outstanding Labour and Community Service

The IAM Union is proud to announce that International Representative Bernie Wood received the prestigious Art Coulter Award at the Annual Labour Community Awards ceremony, an event hosted by United Way Winnipeg in collaboration with the Winnipeg Labour Council. This award is given each year to a trade unionist who has made an outstanding contribution to the lives of working people and the Winnipeg community through volunteerism, activism, education, and support for United Way.

Bernie has been a tireless labour activist, deeply engaged in empowering workers and strengthening communities. His work with United Way Winnipeg includes volunteering on the United Way Cabinet and the Labour Executive Committee. He is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Community Unemployed Help Centre, a partner agency of United Way Winnipeg.

In addition to these roles, Bernie serves as the 2nd Vice President of the Winnipeg Labour Council. Over the years, he has played an important role as the Canadian Labour Congress representative to Manitoba, forging strong connections between labour and United Way. Today, as an international representative for the IAM Union, Bernie continues his advocacy with dedication.

Bernie lives by the IAM Union motto, “Justice on the job and service in the community.” His commitment goes beyond union work; he actively promotes United Way initiatives and generously volunteers his time. Bernie also supports Indigenous groups in Winnipeg by sharing resources from his hunting activities, helping them create protective gear for Indigenous youth.

Colleagues and community members alike know Bernie as a reliable friend and advocate, someone always ready to help and make a difference. His contributions to the labour movement and the broader Winnipeg community exemplify leadership and solidarity.

The IAM Union congratulates Bernie Wood on receiving this well-deserved recognition. His passion for fairness, equity, and community service continues to inspire us all.

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OPCM 2025 Convention Empowers Workers Across Ontario

From May 30 to June 1, 2025, the Ontario Provincial Council of Machinists (OPCM) held its highly anticipated convention in the vibrant city of Toronto. Workers from across the province came together in solidarity, joined by staff, seasoned union leaders, and inspiring new voices. The energy throughout the event was electric, full of powerful discussions, exciting presentations, meaningful recognition, and memorable moments.

The convention kicked off with opening remarks from OPCM’s newly elected President, Dean O’Reilly, setting the tone for a forward-looking and united gathering.

Following his welcome, IAM Canada General Vice President David Chartrand delivered a passionate speech on the importance of solidarity, the fight for workers’ rights, and the union’s approach to global trade issues, including tariffs that affect Canadian industries.

The convention was honoured to have IAM International President Brian Bryant present, His attendance sent a clear and powerful message: Our IAM Brothers, Sisters and Siblings in the United States, stand with Canadian workers. His remarks reinforced the union’s international commitment to its members, especially during challenging times.

Canada’s Chief of Staff, Ralph Martin, also addressed attendees with a speech highlighting the importance of the union’s work. Following his remarks, a surprise tribute was presented by Sister Marcia Stone, along with Sister Mery St. Bernard, Sister Heather Johnston, Sister Rootisha Rampat Sukhu, and Sister Linda Stewart on behalf of Local 1231. They honoured Martin for his exceptional dedication, leadership, and profound impact on both the members and the union. An emotional moment that deeply resonated with everyone present. The group also delivered touching speeches celebrating his commitment and service.

The days weren’t all business. Fun was on the agenda, too. Social activities in the evenings provided members with opportunities to connect and relax.

Day 2: Insights, Inspiration, and Interactive Learning

The second day of the convention was packed with powerful voices and thought-provoking content. Laura Walton, President of the Ontario Federation of Labour, addressed the crowd with a bold and heartfelt call for worker empowerment and cross-sector collaboration.

Secretary-Treasurer Brother Marc Vaillancourt spoke on behalf of Secretary Treasurer Heather Kohli, delivering important financial updates and future planning. The Host Committee also shared a heartfelt report highlighting the effort and unity behind organizing the successful event.

Mental health and workplace well-being took center stage as Richard Prest from the Canadian Mental Health Association presented on how employers can create healthier work environments. His talk highlighted the importance of mental wellness in the workplace and provided strategies for supporting colleagues through empathy, awareness, and organizational change.

Attendees were further inspired by Dani Bartlett, Executive Director of the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario, who delivered an empowering speech on equity, inclusion, and gender justice in the labour movement, highlighting the unique challenges and triumphs of being a woman in trades.

Derek Ferguson, IAM International Representative for Political Action, emphasized in his presentation, the need for ongoing engagement to protect and advance worker rights at all levels of government.

An interactive and energizing session was led by Rootisha Rampat Sukhu, who hosted a union-themed Jeopardy game that had participants learning, laughing, and working together as teams, blending union education with entertainment seamlessly.

Vanessa Breidy’s presentation on the power of communication within unions highlighted the importance of strategy, branding, and upcoming IAM social media initiatives. Paving the way for a more modern, connected, and visible labour movement.

The day ended with a spirited group outing to Medieval Times. Laughter, cheering, and celebration marked another night of community and unity.

Day 3: Recognizing Excellence and Looking Ahead

The convention concluded on a high note with the presentation of the Humanitarian Awards by Heather Johnston, Communications Representative for District 78, recognizing members who go above and beyond in their service to others.

In the spirit of giving back, OPCM’s fundraising efforts during the conference supported a donation to Feed Ontario, an organization that partners with food banks across the province. This contribution, made on behalf of the delegation, was presented as part of the OPCM Humanitarian Award initiative.

A special moment was dedicated to International Representative Kim Valliere, who was presented with a well-deserved award in recognition of her commitment to members across Ontario. Kim’s consistent presence, tireless support, and hands-on help with the convention were acknowledged highlighting the deep respect and appreciation the union has for her ongoing contributions.

Reports were delivered by area vice presidents, including Paul Hicks (Legislative), Heather Johnston (Communications), and Rick Sansom (Health and Safety), each providing key updates and insights into their portfolios.

International Representative Kim Vallière presented exciting news about the 2028 IAM International Convention, sparking anticipation and enthusiasm among delegates.

Finally, OPCM President Dean O’Reilly announced the host location for the next OPCM Convention in 2026: North Bay, wrapping up the event with a look toward the future.

The 2025 OPCM Convention was a celebration of shared values, renewed vision, and collective strength. With new faces stepping forward, experienced leaders lending wisdom, and critical conversations taking place, it was clear that the future of the workers union in Ontario is not only strong but thriving.

Until 2026. Solidarity forever.

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IAM Union International Representative Matthew Barnable Elected Second Vice-President of the New Brunswick Federation of Labour

The IAM Union proudly celebrates the election of its own Matthew Barnable as Second Vice-President of the New Brunswick Federation of Labour (NBFL). The election took place during the NBFL’s recent convention, where delegates from across the province gathered to chart a path forward for organized labour in New Brunswick.

Matthew Barnable, an International Representative with the IAM, has long been a committed advocate for workers’ rights. His election to the NBFL executive represents a strong endorsement of his message and vision for the future of the labour movement.

In a statement following his election, Barnable said:

I am honoured to be elected by the delegates at the convention to serve as Second Vice President to the New Brunswick Federation of Labour. My message to the delegates came from my belief in getting back to grassroots unionism. We must mobilize our own members, educate, grow, and build a broader, more inclusive labour movement. We must simplify, go back to basics and get to work. We face the scourge of scab unions that raid and undermine workers, anti-union governments, and International trade barriers, but we have a chance of revitalization for Labour in Canada. I believe that message resonated with the delegates. I have full faith in newly elected President Chris Watson and the rest of the new executive, and look forward to working with them to improve the lives of workers in the province. I am forever grateful for my union the IAM, for the constant support and for preparing me for this role.”

Barnable joins a new leadership team committed to advancing the interests of working people in New Brunswick. Alongside President Chris Watson, newly elected Secretary-Treasurer Nicholas Maltais (PSAC), First Vice-President Catherine Little (New Brunswick Nurses Union), and other key members of the executive, Barnable will help shape the NBFL’s priorities in the months and years ahead.

The IAM extends its heartfelt congratulations to Matthew Barnable and looks forward to seeing the positive impact of his leadership within the NBFL and beyond.

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Andrew Maeumbaed Retires After 37 Years of Dedicated Service with IAM Union and Superior Chrysler

After nearly four decades of dedication and hard work, Andrew Maeumbaed will be retiring this June from Superior Chrysler in Sault Ste. Marie. A proud member of the IAM Union, Andrew has spent 37 years not only building a career but also helping to build a strong union legacy rooted in solidarity, dignity, and fair compensation.

Andrew’s retirement is a moment of celebration, not just for his years of service, but also for what it represents. Thanks to his longstanding participation in the IAM Pension Plan, Andrew can now look forward to retirement with financial security and peace of mind.

One of the key factors that made Andrew’s retirement possible is the strength of the collective agreement between IAM members and Superior Chrysler. Through diligent negotiations, the union secured a provision requiring the employer to contribute an amount equal to 14% of each member’s wage into the IAM Pension Plan. This significant commitment has allowed members like Andrew to build a reliable retirement foundation.

As Andrew looks ahead to a well-earned retirement, he leaves behind a strong example for younger workers and a legacy of commitment to the union movement. His departure marks not an end, but a reminder of what solidarity can achieve: stability, respect, and a better future for all workers.

Congratulations, Andrew, and thank you for your service!

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Turbulence Ahead: The Real Impact of Deregulating Canada’s Skies

By the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union)


On June 19, 2025, the Competition Bureau of Canada released its final report on airline industry competition: Cleared for takeoff: Elevating airline competition. Its central recommendations? That Canada consider allowing foreign-owned airlines to operate domestic routes and re-evaluate current ownership limits. By proposing to eliminate cabotage restrictions and foreign ownership limits, the Bureau’s suggestions threaten to unravel the very infrastructure that sustains Canada’s aviation sector, with devastating consequences for workers, communities, and national sovereignty.

As the union representing over 16,000 airport workers across the country, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) sees these proposals not as policy progress, but as a direct threat to Canadian jobs, an erosion of our national aviation infrastructure, and a dangerous precedent for public policy driven by short-term economics instead of long-term, Canadian public interest.

The United States strictly prohibits foreign carriers from operating domestic routes, and other regions – like the European Union – only allow such access among member states. Opening our skies unilaterally would offer foreign carriers privileges they don’t extend to us in return.

While we recognize that the airline industry needs reform, deregulating access to our domestic market is not reform. It’s a retreat.

There’s no level playing field – only a losing one

Canada’s aviation sector operates under complex constraints: vast geography, regional routes that are economically and logistically essential but unprofitable, and a regulatory environment already strained by fees and infrastructure gaps. The Bureau’s proposal to allow foreign carriers to fly domestic routes – also known as cabotage – assumes all competitors arrive equally burdened.

They do not.

No major nation, including the United States, offers Canada the same access. Foreign airlines would be invited to pick the most profitable routes without contributing to the rest of the network. That’s not competition. It’s market cherry-picking, and it undermines the carriers and workers who keep the full system running.

Workers will pay the price

For thousands of Canadians, airport jobs are often unionized, come with decent wages, benefits, and job security, and offer permanence increasingly rare in the broader labour market. Our members are the backbone of the aviation economy. Foreign operators with no commitment to Canada will just bring lower wages, fewer benefits, and more precarious, outsourced labour.

This isn’t speculation – it’s history. We’ve seen it deteriorate countless Canadian airlines – from Canada 3000 to Jetsgo to Canadian Airlines International – and there’s no evidence this time will be different.

What makes these recommendations particularly troubling is the lack of labour consultation throughout the Bureau’s study. Only one labour union was interviewed over the course of a 13-month process, despite the airline sector employing tens of thousands of unionized workers. While the IAM provided a detailed written submission to the Bureau, we were never interviewed. Without input from the frontline workforce, these policy recommendations lack the perspective needed to understand their full impact.

National infrastructure cannot be offshored

Our airlines operate in one of the most challenging geographies on earth. They serve small towns, remote communities, and Indigenous territories where air travel is not a luxury – it’s a lifeline. Foreign carriers, with no long-term investment in our infrastructure or workforce, will swoop in for the profitable urban corridors – Toronto to Vancouver, Montreal to Calgary – leaving Canadian carriers to shoulder the financial burden of essential, unprofitable routes.

Once weakened, Canadian carriers will collapse – and with them, thousands of jobs.

If Ottawa opens the door to foreign operators without long-term obligations, what happens when those players exit the market in a downturn? Who ensures continued service to the North? Who remains accountable to Parliament?

The answer cannot be: “whoever’s left.”

If the goal is a better system, let’s fix what’s broken

We do not dispute that Canada’s aviation system has problems. But they begin with issues that tend to be ignored: airport rent and landing fees, overburdened infrastructure, outdated navigation systems, and underinvestment in regional access.

Fixing these problems requires political will, not privatizing the problem and hoping it solves itself.

Conclusion

Canada has a responsibility to foster competition that serves the Canadian public, not foreign corporations. That means strengthening our airlines, protecting our workers, and building an aviation system rooted in resilience, not deregulation. These are national priorities, not global business opportunities to be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

The IAM urges the Canadian government to reject the Competition Bureau’s recommendations on cabotage and foreign ownership. These proposals may promise cheaper fares, but they will come at the cost of sovereignty, safety, and economic stability.

Our skies are not for sale. And the people who keep them running shouldn’t pay the price.


For the full report from the Competition Bureau, please click here.

To see the IAM Union’s submission to the Competition Bureau, please click here.

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IAM Union International Officers Sworn in for New Term During Ceremony Honoring Union Democracy, Member-Led Leadership

The IAM Union marked a powerful moment of renewal as its newly elected International Officers were sworn in for a four-year term during an installation ceremony that celebrated the union’s democratic foundation and its future-facing vision.

Held before an audience of IAM members, retirees, staff, and labor allies, the ceremony at the IAM’s Headquarters was a reminder that in the IAM Union, leadership is chosen by the membership. Each officer sworn in was elected directly by the IAM’s rank-and-file membership. 

WATCH: 2025 IAM Union International Officer Installation Ceremony

International President Brian Bryant, a longtime member of Local S6, was sworn in to continue to lead the IAM through a period of bold organizing, strategic growth, and deep commitment to equity and inclusion. In his remarks, Bryant offered heartfelt thanks to the membership, his fellow Executive Council members, the IAM’s staff, and his family. 

PHOTOS: 2025 IAM Union International Officer Installation Ceremony

“To our membership—thank you,” said Bryant. “Thank you for placing your trust in this leadership team. That trust is not something we take lightly. It’s something we earn—every day, in every fight, in every shop floor conversation, contract campaign, organizing drive, and legislative battle.”

Bryant also reinforced the union’s evolving identity. 

“We must be clear: This union stands for all workers. No matter where you were born. No matter who you love. No matter who you worship. No matter how you got here,” said Bryant. “If you work for a living—you deserve justice on the job. You deserve the power of a union contract. And you deserve to be treated with dignity.”

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler also delivered remarks during the ceremony, celebrating the IAM Union’s legacy and applauding the union’s future-facing leadership. 

“What brings us together is this belief that all work has dignity and that we all deserve the freedom, fairness and security,” said Shuler. “Those are the values that unite every worker, and that’s what we’re going to fight for every single day. We’re going to organize everywhere — just like the IAM is by taking on the largest companies in the world.”

The following officers were sworn in for a four-year term, beginning July 1, 2025: 

International President
Brian Bryant (Local S6) 

General Secretary-Treasurer
Dora Cervantes (Local 2198) 

Canadian General Vice President
David Chartrand (Local 712)* 

U.S. General Vice Presidents
David Sullivan (Local S6)
Richie Johnsen (Local 1781)
Craig Martin (Local 470)
Jody Bennett (Local 2771)
Sam Cicinelli (Local 701)
Robert “Bobby” Martinez (Local 933) 

Law Committee
Eric Johnston (Local 235)
Ryan Haehnlein (Local 701)
Teressa Peart (Local 774)
Olu Ajetomobi (Local 1781)
Sal Vasquez (Local 311) 

Delegates to the AFL-CIO
E. Michael Vartabedian (Local 264)
Sharon Sugiyama (Local 2339G)
Richard Jackson (Local 751A) 

Delegate to the Canadian Labour Congress
Christy Slauenwhite (Local 764)*

*Elected solely by IAM members in Canada

Administering the oath of office was retired IAM International President R. Thomas Buffenbarger, who led the union from 1997 to 2016. Buffenbarger’s presence and role in the ceremony served as a bridge between generations of IAM leadership and reinforced the enduring principles that guide the union.

The installation ceremony featured spiritual and inspirational reflection from Derrick Monk, a member of IAM Local 1776, a District 141 Trustee, and Senior Pastor of the Divine Covenant Outreach Center in Philadelphia. Monk set the tone for the ceremony with an invocation that called on unity, courage, and the shared responsibility of leadership.

As the IAM Union looks ahead, this newly installed leadership team is charged with growing the union across traditional and emerging industries, empowering members through strong contracts, and continuing to lead with integrity, inclusion, and determination.

“All of us, together, are the stewards of something powerful,” said Bryant. “We inherit this union not just to protect it, but to grow it. To make it bolder, more inclusive, and more powerful than ever.”

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