Wisconsin Workers Fight Back Against ‘Right-to-Work’ Power Grab

Wisconsin’s state Senate approved a right-to-work bill in an “extraordinary legislative session” on Wednesday, cutting off debate on the measure that will weaken unions and transfer even more power from workers to corporations.

Tea Party Conservatives Again Targeting Ex-Im Bank, U.S. Jobs

Far-right Republicans in Congress are again circling the U.S. Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank, hoping to kill the independent credit agency that helps U.S. companies sell products to foreign buyers and supported more than 200,000 American jobs in 2013 alone.

IAM, NFFE Mourn Sudden Death of NFFE Attorney Phil Snodgrass, 27

The IAM and the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) are mourning the tragic death of NFFE-IAM Assistant General Counsel Philip Snodgrass, 27, who on Monday, February 23 was struck and killed by an erratic driver who drove off a street and onto a sidewalk in downtown Washington, DC.

Buffenbarger On-Hand as Iowa Machinists Elect New Leadership

The Iowa State Council of Machinists received an unexpected visitor during their spring business and election meeting on February 14, 2015, in Des Moines.

Union Plus Launches Video Campaign

In a series of new videos, find out why IAM members should switch to the credit card designed to meet their needs: the Union Plus Machinists Credit Card.

Wisconsin in Crosshairs of Right-to-Work Sneak Attack

After saying in his re-election bid that he wouldn’t push for so-called right-to-work legislation, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) now says he will sign a bill being railroaded through the state’s General Assembly to make Wisconsin the country’s 25th right-to-work state.

Tell the Senate to Reject Disapproval of New NLRB Rules

Senate Republicans are pushing what’s known as a “resolution of disapproval” of modernized union election rules issued by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

TAKE ACTION: Tell your Senators to oppose S.J. Res. 8.

IAM Honors GST Roach, Historic Guest for Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, the IAM honored IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr., as well as distinguished guest and retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Joseph Carpenter.

Apprentices Graduate from IAM/Boeing Joint Apprenticeship Program

Five students in the IAM/Boeing Joint Apprenticeship Program are now journeymen.

WATCH: IAM/Boeing Joint Apprenticeship Graduation

Pelletier Elected to AFL-CIO Executive Council

Connecticut AFL-CIO Executive Secretary-Treasurer Lori Pelletier, a member of IAM Local 700, has been elected to the Executive Council of the AFL-CIO, the labor organization announced at its council meetings.

NYT Columnist Nicholas Kristof Admits He Was Wrong About Unions

New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof writes in a recent op-ed that he has come around on labor unions, and now believes organized labor had, and continues to have, a critical role in combating rising income inequality.

Puerto Rico Snack Stockers Vote IAM, Win Direct Employment

Ninety more workers in Puerto Rico have voted by a 94 percent margin to join the IAM.

The Frito-Lay snack stockers were working on a temporary basis before organizing with the IAM. They will now become direct employees of Pepsi Co./Frito-Lay and the newest members of IAM Local 2725.

Detroit Lightweight Innovation for Tomorrow Institute Opens

The IAM is a partner in a recently announced $148 million Department of Defense grant to open an advanced manufacturing institute in the Detroit area to develop methods, refine processes and train workers in lightweight and modern metals manufacturing.

New IAM Video: The Truth About Right-to-Work Laws

A new video on the Machinists News Network warns middle-class Americans about right-to-work laws sweeping across states. The legislation harms working families and is responsible for union busting, job killing and wage cutting.

Watch “The Truth About Right-to-Work Laws” on the Machinists News Network.

Arizona Local 933 Completes WWW Negotiation Prep Class

Members of the IAM Local 933, Tucson, AZ, Negotiating Committee met at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Center in Hollywood, MD, to train, plan and develop negotiating strategies for upcoming negotiations with Raytheon in October 2015.

Supreme Court Says No to Health Care Benefits for Union Retirees

A pivotal U.S. Supreme Court decision could endanger health care benefits that union retirees once thought were untouchable.

2015 IAM Scholarship Deadline February 25

The deadline to apply for a 2015 IAM Scholarship Award is less than one week away. Applications must be postmarked no later than February 25, 2015 to be considered.

IAM to Join 50th Anniversary March in Selma

The IAM will join thousands of civil, labor and human rights activists in a re-creation of the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, AL that called for an end to the segregationist laws that prevented African Americans from voting.

IAM Organizing Director: Let South Carolina Workers Decide For Themselves

Workers at Boeing in North Charleston, SC should not have to deal with harassment and intimidation when it comes to joining a union. They should be able to decide for themselves, said IAM Organizing Director Don Barker in a recent one-on-one interview with the Machinists News Network.

Trumka: Wall Street Shouldn’t Be Paying Executives to Take Government Jobs

The biggest Wall Street banks don’t want you to know how much they pay their top executives to take government jobs, and they’re pleading with the Securities and Exchange Commission to let them keep it a secret.

GOP Gimmick Being Used to Delay New Worker Protections

Republicans in Congress are employing a rarely-used Senate rule to halt new National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) regulations aimed at speeding up and modernizing union representation elections.

Battle for the Internet: Tell Congress to Support Net Neutrality

On February 26, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expected to vote on a proposal that would allow internet service providers to charge higher premiums for select content and slow down your internet connection.

IAM, Labor Discuss Blueprint for Fighting Employer Bankruptcies, Protecting Member Pensions

Labor leaders must educate themselves on the ins and outs of employer bankruptcy now – before they find themselves in a tumultuous fight to save their members’ pensions and health care benefits in bankruptcy court, said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr., to a gathering of labor leaders during a two-day seminar at AFL-CIO headquarters.

Illinois Gov. Rauner Looking to Gut Public Employee Unions

Illinois Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner wasted no time joining a growing gang of right-wing governors who attack the rights of workers.

Keeping SC Gov. Haley Honest on IAM, Boeing

South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley’s anti-union crusade is becoming increasingly at odds with her obligation to uphold labor law, says IAM General Counsel Mark Schneider.

IAM Carrying Torch for Community-Based Organizing

The Machinists Union is heeding the words of U.S. Labor Secretary Tom Perez in his call for more community involvement as organized labor tries to help rebuild America’s middle class.

Watch the new Machinists News Network video, “A Commitment to Community-Based Organizing.”

Time is Now to Apply for a 2015 IAM Scholarship

The deadline to apply for a 2015 IAM Scholarship Award will be here before you know it. Applications must be postmarked no later than February 25, 2015 to be considered.

Spirit Machinists Win Big Profit Sharing Payout

IAM District 70 members at Spirit AeroSystems will receive a profit sharing payout significantly higher than previous years thanks to forward-looking negotiations and company earnings that exceeded expectations. The payout will occur on February 26, 2015 and covers 7,324 hourly employees in Wichita, KS; Chanute, KS and Kinston, NC.

New Mexico Democrats: Right-to-Work (For Less) Law is ‘Spin,’ ‘Misleading’

Right-to-work (for less) laws are wrong for New Mexico and it’s time to stick with the facts, say state Democratic leaders in two op-eds published in southwestern New Mexico public television and radio station KRWG.

NEW MEXICO RESIDENTS: Tell the New Mexico House of Representatives to reject Right-to-Work (For Less).

Longtime Activist Honored by Connecticut Machinists

In 1960, IAM Local 700 member Clarence Gaskins was denied his right to vote. Last weekend, he was honored by Connecticut Gov. Dan Malloy for his union and political activism.

Spanish Organizing Class Shows Solidarity with Missing Mexican Students

IAM members added their voice to the global outrage sparked by the September 2014 disappearance and probable murder of 43 Mexican student teachers who were ambushed by police, and then a drug cartel, while leaving the southern Mexican city of Iguala after protesting education reforms and soliciting donations for their school.

Muestra Solidaria de la Clase de Organización en Español con los Estudiantes Mexicanos Desaparecidos

Miembros de la Asociación Internacional de Maquinistas y Trabajadores Aeroespaciales (IAM) añadieron su voz a la indignación mundial provocada por la desaparición de Septiembre del 2014 y probable asesinato de 43 estudiantes para profesores (normalistas) mexicanos que fueron emboscados por la policía y ser entregados a un cartel de drogas, al alejarse de la ciudad de Iguala en el sur de México después de protestar por las reformas educativas y solicitar donaciones para su escuela.

West Virginia Machinists ‘Thinking Outside the Locomotive’

When CSX Railroad served notice to outsource the rebuilding of hundreds of locomotives, IAM Local 104 members in Hungtington, WV, where CSX is one of the largest employers, knew they had to do something to save these jobs.

IAM Members Ratify New Accord, End Strike at Monofrax

Members of Local 2105 in Falconer, NY this week voted to ratify a five-year agreement with Monofrax, a company that makes fusion cast refractories used in the glass industry. The vote ends a five-month strike over healthcare costs that will also be remembered for broad community support and a picket line that remained solid despite sub-zero temperatures.

New Right-to-Work (For Less) Battles at Local, State and Federal Levels

Big Business outsiders have their sights on making New Mexico the latest right-to-work (for less) state.

Nex Mexico Residents - TAKE ACTION: Tell the New Mexico House of Representatives to reject Right-to-Work (For Less).

Join the Stop Fast Track Lobby Day on March 4

The IAM will join labor, the AFL-CIO and other allied organizations in a Stop Fast Track Lobby Day on March 4, 2015 in Washington, DC.

IAM Steps in to Help Laid-Off Woodworkers

With the holidays on the minds of IAM members at the California Redwood Company (CRC) in Korbel, CA in early December 2014, the company issued a notice informing employees of the plant’s impending closure. The company is transitioning to Douglas fir lumber after more than 100 years of harvesting Redwood.

Wisconsin Machinists Donate Cold Weather Gear to Those in Need

Members of IAM District 66, Local 21 and Local 1115 came together to distribute more than 250 hats, 350 pairs of mittens, and almost 50 scarves and blankets to those standing in line at a food pantry in La Crosse, WI.

2015 IAM Calendars Still Available

The 2015 IAM Calendar is still available. Individual calendars are $7 each. For Lodges that want to bulk order 100 calendars or more, the cost is $5 per calendar.

President Obama Aims to End Harmful Sequestration Cuts

President Obama will put forth a budget on Monday that calls for an end to the forced defense and domestic spending cuts known as sequestration, according to multiple media reports.

IAM Ratchets Up Heat on Congress to Reject Fast Track for TPP

The IAM is continuing to sound the alarm to Congress on the grave danger of approving “Fast Track” trade authorization for the secretly-negotiated Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a free trade agreement that will allow more of the same trade policies that have hurt working families for the last 20 years.

Punk Band to Anti-Union Governor: ‘We Literally Hate You!!!’

Wisconsin Republican Gov. Scott Walker is going to need a new entrance song.

The anti-union governor, best known for stripping collective bargaining rights for most Wisconsin public employees, played the Dropkick Murphys’ hit song “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” as he bounced onto an Iowa stage to deliver remarks this past weekend.

Like the IAM Southern Territory Facebook Page

Social media was at the top of the list for discussion during the recent IAM Southern Territory Staff Conference, and the attending leadership of the territory was excited about the use of social media and increased communications with region’s membership.

Time is Now to Apply for a 2015 IAM Scholarship

The deadline to apply for a 2015 IAM Scholarship Award will be here before you know it. Applications must be postmarked no later than February 25, 2015 to be considered.

Wirth Appointed Southern Territory Special Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger announced the appointment of District 75 Business Representative Anthony Wirth to Southern Territory Special Representative, effective February 1, 2015.

Union-Busting Koch Brothers Want to Spend $889 Million to Buy 2016 Election

Anti-worker billionaires Charles and David Koch say they are budgeting to spend $889 million on 2016 campaigns through their right-wing political organizations, effectively transforming their network into a third political party.

IAM Southern Territory Pledges to Continue Organizing Success

The 2015 Southern Territory Staff Conference in Bay St. Louis, MS wrapped up last week with a look back at a successful 2014 in organizing, and a new commitment for 2015.

First Spanish Organizing I Program Kicks Off 2015 at W3 Center

A truly historic milestone was achieved at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center as members from several IAM Territories took part in the first-ever Spanish Organizing I program.

Primer Programa de Organización Sindical I en Español Inaugura el 2015 en el Centro de Educación y Tecnología

Un hecho verdaderamente histórico se alcanzó en el Centro de Educación y Tecnología William W. Winpisinger (WWW) cuando miembros de varios territorios de la IAM participaron en el programa de Organización Sindical I por primera vez.

Union Plus Scholarship Deadline January 31

If you or your child/dependent haven't applied or finished your online application for the 2015 Union Plus Scholarship yet, you still have time. All applications are due Saturday, January 31, 2015 by noon ET.

Reminder: New Contact Info for IAM Employee Assistance Program

IAM members needing the confidential services of the IAM Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can contact an EAP facilitator directly at 1-800-788-9044, by email at iameap@iamaw.org, or by calling the Retiree, Community and Membership Services Department at 301-967-3433.

SC Gov. Haley Attacks Workers in State Address

Anti-union South Carolina Republican Gov. Nikki Haley used a significant portion of her annual State of the State address Wednesday night to attack workers trying to organize with the IAM at Boeing’s North Charleston, SC plant.

IAM Members Reflect, Give Back on MLK Day

IAM members from across the country took pause Monday to remember and celebrate the legacy of human, civil and workers’ rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

‘Middle Class Economics’ Take Center Stage in Obama’s State of the Union

President Obama on Tuesday night delivered a State of the Union address full of advocacy for working families, including fighting inequality, raising wages and strengthening unions.

Lodge President Steps Down After Record 40 Years

When the gavel comes down to open the January 2015 meeting of Rolls Royce office employees IAM Local Lodge 2468, it will mark the end of an era. For the first time in 40 years, Lee Cappadocia will not be chairing the meeting as president. His last official day in office was January 20, 2015.

Join ‘Say No to Fast Track’ Call-in Today Jan. 21

Last night in his State of the Union address, President Obama told Americans that “we should write [the] rules” for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Today is your chance.

Call 1-855-712-8441 now to add your voice to the stop Fast Track campaign or email your message: Tell Congress to Vote ‘No’ on Fast Track for the TPP.

Delta Flight Attendant Addresses AFL-CIO’s 2015 MLK Civil and Human Rights Conference

At the AFL-CIO’s annual event commemorating Martin Luther King Jr.'s labor and civil rights activism, Atlanta-based Delta Flight Attendant Spencer Hayes brought the crowd to its feet as he passionately spoke about the Delta Flight Attendants' historic movement to attain collective bargaining rights at Delta Air Lines.

What to Listen For in Obama’s State of the Union Address

Working Americans will be listening closely as President Obama delivers his State of the Union address Tuesday evening at 9 p.m. ET.

Join ‘Say No to Fast Track’ Call-in Day Jan. 21

Add your voice to the many thousands to tell Congress “Say No to Fast Track” on Wednesday, January 21 in a national call-in event. Use the AFLCIO’s toll-free hotline, 1-855-712-8441, to get connected to your Representative. Tell your Representative to vote “No” on Fast Track Trade Authority because Fast Track will allow more of the same failed trade policies that have hurt working families for the last 20 years.

APRI Targets Trans-Pacific Partnership and Fast Track Trade Authority

The president and executive board of the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) joined a growing chorus of civil, labor and human rights organizations calling for major changes to the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The AFL-CIO’s senior constituency group is also opposing the Fast Track authority that would eliminate the ability of elected officials and constituency groups to recommend and implement necessary changes.

IAM Members, College Students: Apply for a 2015 IAM Scholarship

The deadline to apply for a 2015 IAM Scholarship Award will be here before you know it. Applications must be postmarked no later than February 25, 2015 to be considered.

Tune in to New Season of Brotherhood Outdoors

Are you ready for another action-packed season of Brotherhood Outdoors?

The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) is in the midst of a brand-new season of the union-dedicated TV show, exclusively on the Sportsman Channel.

Tell the Senate to Reject Keystone Amendment That Hurts U.S. Ship Building

A shortsighted and unrelated amendment to the Keystone XL Pipeline bill in the U.S. Senate would end the U.S. ship building requirement of the Jones Act, severely damaging our defense capabilities and putting good-paying American jobs at risk.

TAKE ACTION: Tell your Senators to reject a harmful amendment which offshores U.S. ship building jobs.

IAM Shines a Light on Alabama’s Blue Collar Heroes

The IAM is launching an initiative aimed at highlighting the contributions of the highly-skilled, front-line production workers behind Alabama’s recent aerospace explosion.

Buffenbarger: Blame Congress for Recent Attack on U.S. Pensions

Retirees of troubled multi-employer pension plans have Congress to blame for the recent passage of legislation allowing troubled plans to cut already-retired Americans’ pension benefits, said IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger in a one-on-one interview with the Machinists News Network.

NFFE-IAM, Federal Workers Win Paid Family Leave

President Obama gave the movement for greater access to paid family leave a big boost Thursday when he took executive action to provide federal workers with at least six weeks paid leave annually after a new child arrives or to care for ill family members. He’s also calling on Congress to pass legislation providing them an additional six weeks.

Ohio Cummins Bridgeway Workers Vote IAM

A determined group of Cummins Diesel Engine/Generator Field Technicians and Parts Professionals employed by Cummins Bridgeway in West Chester, OH voted overwhelmingly, 26 to 1, to join the IAM and leave their former Teamster Union.

Ruppert Appointed IAM CREST Coordinator

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has announced the appointment of Brian Ruppert to the position of IAM CREST Project Coordinator and Instructor. The appointment was effective January 5, 2015.

Delta Flight Attendants, IAM File For Historic Election

The IAM today delivered signed election request cards to the National Mediation Board (NMB) from nearly 12,000 Delta Air Lines Flight Attendants to formally request that the federal agency conduct a union representation election at the carrier.

Support Continues for Striking Kentucky IAM Local 219 Members

More than 130 IAM Local 219 members employed by Allsource Global Management (AGM) at Bluegrass Station Army Depot in Lexington, KY have held the picket line for over 100 days in everything from tornadic thunderstorms to bitter cold in an unfair labor practice strike.

Labor Board Rules in IAM Favor in Florida AutoNation Case – Again

The IAM has scored another important legal victory for workers who endured harassment, intimidation and firings after they voted to unionize at Mercedes-Benz of Orlando, FL. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has reissued its 2012 ruling requiring the dealership, which is owned by AutoNation, reinstate five workers who were fired for their union activities, with full back pay.

IAM Mourns Former Southern Territory GVP Roe Spencer

The IAM is mourning the loss of former Southern Territory General Vice President Roe Spencer, who passed away on January 8, 2015. He was 88 years old.

First Salvos of New GOP Congress: Social Security, Disability Benefits

The GOP-controlled House of Representatives have their sights set on Social Security and disability benefits as their first order of business. Soon after this week’s convening of the 114th Congress, members approved a rule that would force both programs into insolvency.

IAM Mourns Oregon Woodworker Killed On Job

The IAM mourns the death of District W24 member Justin Simons, 31, who died in December 2014 after becoming trapped in a piece of machinery at a Weyerhaeuser sawmill facility in Cottage Grove, OR.

Solis Appointed Western Territory Special Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed District 725 Organizing Director Joe Solis to the position of Western Territory Special Representative.

IAM Band unioNation Looking for Musicians

The IAM’s popular unioNation band is asking: Do you want to be a part of history?

Sanders: Secret TPP Details Must be Released

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) echoed the words of many in the labor movement when he called it “incomprehensible” that the text of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a massive free trade deal being negotiated between the U.S. and 11 other countries, has not been made available to Congress.

Follow World’s Largest Organizing Campaign on IAM Delta App

Stay on top of all the latest news and developments in the IAM Delta Flight Attendant campaign by downloading the new IAM Delta App. You will receive all the latest news in one convenient location on your mobile device.

Three (of Many) Attacks on Workers’ Rights to Watch in 2015

An emboldened GOP is poised to go on offense against organized labor this year.

Republicans officially gained control of the U.S. Senate, and widened its majority in the House, when lawmakers took the oath of office for a new term Tuesday. The GOP also controls an unprecedented number of state legislatures and governorships.

NLRB Rules in Favor of IAM, Smaller Bargaining Units in Auto Industry

A National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruling on behalf of body shop workers in Chesapeake, VA could set a significant precedent in the auto industry.

Seattle IAM Members Lend Hand to Parents in Need

IAM District 160, Local 289 members collected thousands of infant-care products to in-need Seattle-area families over the Holidays.

Machinists Take Time to Give Back During Holiday Season

From toy drives to bike collections, the IAM is banding together this holiday season to help spread some cheer to working families across the country.

Texas URS Workers Complete WWW Negotiation Prep Class

The newly-elected Negotiating Committee at URS at Red River Army Depot outside of Texarkana, TX attended the Negotiations Preparations training at the William W. Winpisinger Center (WWW) in Hollywood, MD in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Young Machinists Sought for AFL-CIO NextUp Young Worker Summit

IAM District and Local Lodges are encouraged to consider sending young activists to represent the Machinists Union at the AFL-CIO NextUp Young Worker Summit.

Federal Employee Basic Class Deadline Extended to January 9

The deadline for the Federal Employees’ Basic Program to be held February 8-13, 2015 at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center, in Hollywood, MD, has been extended to January 9.

Grand Lodge Sets Holiday Closing

IAM Headquarters will close for the holidays at the close of business Friday, December 19, and re-open Monday, January 5, 2015. Best wishes to all for a safe and joyous holiday season.

IAM, Millworkers File Injunction Against Verso

IAM District 4 has filed an injunction in the U.S. District Court of Maine against Verso Paper Corp., as part of the growing effort to force the company to honor severance commitments to hundreds of employees who will lose their jobs when Verso shutters the Bucksport mill.

New Rules to Make Union Organizing a Little More Worker-Friendly

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is changing its rules to allow for more timely union elections, which are often stalled by employers hoping to discourage employees from unionizing.

Texas Machinists Organize Holiday Bicycle Drive

Anyone who has ever seen a child’s eyes light up at the sight of a new bicycle under the tree on Christmas morning knows where the inspiration behind this latest example of IAM service to the community comes from.

Union Plus Scholarship Deadline January 31

You still have time to apply for a 2015 Union Plus Scholarship. The deadline for applications is January 31, 2015. This year's application is entirely online. Scholarships are from $500 to $4,000 and do not require repayment.

Congress Drops Holiday Bomb on U.S. Retirees

In a move that will allow deep cuts to earned pension benefits for millions of U.S. retirees, members of Congress are expected to vote this week on a spending bill that includes significant changes to the 1974 law outlawing such cuts.

IAM New York Local 2105 Workers on Strike at RHI Monofrax

More than 300 people attended a rally in Falconer, NY as a show of solidarity for more than 130 IAM Local 2105 and National Conference of Firemen and Oilers (NCFO) workers on strike at fusion cast refractory-maker RHI Monofrax.

Enroll in 2015 IAM Employee Assistance Programs Now

The IAM has announced the 2015 dates for all four stages of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

Hough Appointed Midwest Territory Special Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has announced the appointment of Indianapolis District 90 Directing Business Representative Tim Hough to the position of Midwest Territory Special Representative, effective January 1, 2015.

Report: U.S. Wages Barely Rising; Collective Bargaining Needed to Address Worldwide Inequality

Wage growth in developed countries, including the U.S., has remained almost stagnant since 2006, according to the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) 2014-15 Global Wage Report.

New IAM Ad Targets Congress’ Attack on U.S. Pensions

In its ongoing effort to fight Congressional attempts to cut multiemployer pension benefits of retirees and their surviving spouses, the IAM has taken out a full-page ad in DC political news favorites Politico, Roll Call and The Hill. The ad calls on Congress to reject any proposal that would seek to bail out a few troubled plans on the backs of existing retirees. 

TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress to vote “No” on the bill to cut multiemployer pensions for retirees.

L-3 Helicopter Mechanics, Supply Personnel Negotiate First IAM Contract

The IAM’s campaign to organize the South continues with a strong first contract for 201 helicopter mechanics and supply personnel employed by L-3 at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, GA.

Right-to-Work Bills on Docket in GOP-Controlled Statehouses

The GOP’s takeover of the U.S. Senate got a lot of attention post-Election Day, but the widening Republican majority in state houses around the country could prove equally as destructive for working families.

Protestors Pay Visit to TPP Free Trade Negotiators

A blustery and cold day in Washington, DC wasn’t enough to keep hundreds of labor, environmental and consumer advocates from protesting the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade agreement, or TPP, on the steps of the U.S. Trade Representative’s office.

TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress to Vote ‘No’ on Fast Track for the TPP.

Guide Dog Recipient Shares Personal Story as GDA Fund-A-Need Campaign Continues

As Guide Dogs of America (GDA) continues its Holiday Fund-A-Need campaign, the IAM’s favorite charity wants to remind supporters of the profound impact a guide dog has on the life of a blind or visually-impaired individual.

Machinists Slam Congress Over Sneak Attack on U.S. Pension Law

In a stunning betrayal of America’s highly vulnerable retiree population, lawmakers are preparing legislation for the lame duck session of Congress that would overturn a key tenant of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) and allow drastic cuts to the pensions of current retirees and surviving spouses.

Take Action: Tell Congress to vote “No” on any legislation that would fund troubled pension plans on the backs of American retirees.

Machinists Union Members Approve New Deal at Southwest Airlines

Approximately 6,500 Passenger Service and Reservations Agents at Southwest Airlines have overwhelmingly approved a new contract.

IAM Rail Workers Look to Future at District 19 Convention

IAM District 19 gave a nod to its storied past while looking toward the future for Machinist Union railroad workers at its seventh quadrennial convention in Denver.

Don Barker Named IAM Organizing Director

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has announced the appointment of Aerospace Coordinator Don Barker to the position of Organizing Director, effective January 1, 2015.

New Video Highlights Annual Guide Dogs of America Events

More than 1,400 people took part in the Guide Dogs of America (GDA) 34th annual William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet, golf tournament, Hawgs for Dogs motorcycle ride and sporting clay event in Las Vegas as shown in a new video.

Give the Gift of Union Plus this Holiday Season

Surprise your loved ones for the holidays with a brand new AT&T smartphone and 15 percent off their wireless bill – all while receiving up to $250 in rebates through the Union Plus Smartphone Rebate Program.

Oklahoma NFFE-IAM Members Storm Capitol Hill to Save Job Training Center

When the U.S. Department of Labor announced its intent to close the Treasure Lake Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center in Indiahoma, OK, the NFFE-IAM members who work at the center knew they had to act.

USA Today Report Examines ‘The New Blue Collar’

In case you missed it, USA Today has published a special report on what the news publication is calling “The New Blue Collar.”

Think Guide Dogs of America on #GivingTuesday

Tuesday, December 2 is #GivingTuesday and also the launch of the Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Holiday Fund-A-Need campaign.

UnioNation Receives High Praise for ‘Rocking Solidarity Music’

The IAM’s unioNation is “rocking solidarity music that comes around only once or twice in a lifetime,” says a recent review by Saul Schniderman, a labor music enthusiast and co-founder of the Labor Heritage Foundation.

Tell CarMax to Stop Selling Unsafe, Recalled Cars

An online petition to get CarMax to stop selling unsafe, recalled cars needs the help of IAM members to get over 100,000 signatures.

Banquet Honors Guide Dogs Fundraisers

The IAM’s charity, Guide Dogs of America (GDA), honored fundraisers and presented its highest honor, the “Gift of Sight Award,” to TCU-IAM National President Robert Scardelletti, New England Motor Freight Chairman Myron “Mike” Shevell and IAM District 15/Local 447 Area Director Russ Gittlen at the 34th annual William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet in Las Vegas.

Striking IAM Auto Tech Members Under Intense Persecution in Massachusetts

A new video produced by the Machinists News Network showcases Massachusetts car dealership Country Nissan’s all-out war on IAM-represented auto technician workers in Hadley.

IAM Districts Donate Holiday Dinners to AGM Strikers

About 135 IAM Local 219 families at Bluegrass Station, KY have been on an Unfair Labor Practice Strike against government sub-contractor Allsource Global Management (AGM) since October 1. As the holiday season approached they stood tall and proud at their Local Lodge meeting Monday, November 24 when the Local leadership distributed a full Thanksgiving dinner package to each family, including a turkey, sack full of fixings and pumpkin pie. District 27 of Louisville, KY, District 711 of Nashville, KY and District 75 of Enterprise, AL provided all the food.

Norwegian Air Peddles Scheme to Fly into U.S., Abolish Worker Rights

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is expected to rule on Norwegian Air International’s (NAI) application for a foreign air carrier permit soon.

Hollibush Appointed Western Territory Special Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed IAM District 190 Assistant Directing Business Representative Mark Hollibush to serve as a Special Representative to the Western Territory, effective December 1, 2014.

Have a Happy Union-Made Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving this Thursday you may be planning a party, celebrating with a crowd, a few friends or having a quiet dinner at home. However you choose to celebrate, don't forget to check your shopping list to ensure your day is filled with union-made items.

Apprenticeships and Skills Training Partnerships Are Key to Economic Future

The U.S. is facing a major skills gap and it’s up to labor, business and the education community to come together to address it, said IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger at a recent summit on Career and Technical Education (CTE)/Workforce Development, sponsored by the AFL-CIO and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

Connecticut Local 1871 Breaks Annual Turkey Drive Record

IAM Local 1871 in Groton, CT, is in the middle of their 24th year of providing Thanksgiving baskets for out-of-work members, needy families in the community and others in need. In what has also become a tradition, they are set to break last year’s record.

Canada Northwest District 250 Completes WWW Negotiation Prep Class

Members of IAM Northwest District 250 in Canada, representing 850 employees at Caterpillar distributor Finning in Vancouver, BC, attended the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Negotiation Preparation for Bargaining Committees class in Hollywood, MD.

ITF Taps Klima, Da Costa for Leadership Posts

Two IAM officials have ascended to leadership positions in the 4.5-million member International Transport Workers Federation (ITF).

District 751 Golf Tournament Raises $15K for Guide Dogs

Seattle IAM District 751’s annual Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Charity Golf Tournament raised $15,000 for the IAM charity.

Werkmeister Named Special Representative to IAM Transportation Department

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger announced John Werkmeister would join the Transportation Department as a Special Representative, effective December 1, 2014.

Satisfaction in Strathroy: Laid-Off IAM Members Win Back Pay

Losing your job is never an enjoyable experience, but for the workers at Glendale International in Strathroy, Ontario, things were especially bleak. When the manufacturer of Recreational Vehicles declared bankruptcy and closed its doors in January 2010, they were left without a job, benefits or compensation of any kind.

Georgia Machinists Ratify Improved Contract at John Deere

IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere in Augusta, GA recently negotiated and ratified a contract that secures improved wages and benefits as the agricultural equipment manufacturer celebrates its one millionth tractor sale.

Tell Congress to Fully Fund F-35 Production, Protect IAM Jobs

The IAM is urging Congress to stop any further spending cuts for the F-35 program, a fighter jet built by IAM members which keeps our armed forces safe while defending U.S. interests around the globe.

TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress to fund a full fleet of F-35s to keep our military safe and protect good-paying IAM jobs.

Register Now for WWW Center 2015 Federal Employee Classes

The 2015 Federal Employees’ Basic Program will be held at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center, in Hollywood, MD, during the weeks of February 8-13 and March 8-13, 2015. A Federal Employees’ Advanced Program will be held February 22-27, 2015.

Vote for 'Brotherhood Outdoors,' Your Union-Dedicated Outdoor TV Show

More than 140,000 viewers voted in Sportsman Channel’s 2011 Sportsman Choice Awards, and “Brotherhood Outdoors” took home the award for Best Combination (Hunting/Fishing) Show.

Labor Rallies to #StopFastTrack

The #StopFastTrack Week of Action is in full swing as labor and other trade advocacy organizations across the country rally to stop Congress from passing “Fast Track Trade Authority,” legislation that would allow for the swift passage of the highly-flawed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement.

IAM Takes First Place For Organizing Wins

The IAM had the highest representation election win rate among the 10 largest U.S. unions in the first six months of 2014, winning over 90 percent of its elections, according to National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) data analyzed by the Bloomberg Bureau of National Affairs. AFL-CIO affiliate unions as a whole won two-thirds of elections held in the same time frame.

Connecticut Machinists Help Secure Election Day Bright Spot

Bucking a national trend of right-wing Election Day victories, Connecticut voters defeated a union-busting millionaire to re-elect progressive Dan Malloy as the state’s governor. IAM members helped ensure the win.

Washington State IAM Members Win Milestone Arbitration Case

IAM members at Simpson Lumber in western Washington state are celebrating a landmark arbitration ruling that protects bargaining unit jobs by returning duties to union safety coordinators after the company had eliminated the position and given its duties to a salaried “safety supervisor.”

SpaceX in Hot Water Over Alleged Labor Violations

A newcomer to the space transport industry is having some success launching rockets into space, but still can’t figure out how to follow California labor law.

Historic Brazilian Aerospace Strike Ends, But Workers Continue Struggle

Workers for Embraer in São José dos Campos, Brazil have vowed to continue their fight for fair wages after narrowly voting to suspend the largest strike at the company since the world’s third-largest airplane maker was privatized in 1994.

IAM Honors Veterans, Introduces New Veterans Services Program

This Veterans Day in the U.S. and Remembrance Day in Canada, Tuesday, November 11, 2014, the IAM honors our members in the armed forces who are serving and have served our nations.

Buffenbarger: Election Results ‘Will Not Weaken Our Resolve’

Join the ‘Stop Fast Track’ Week of Action Nov. 8-14

The IAM will be joining labor and other trade and advocacy organizations in a week-long push to stop Congress from passing “Fast Track Trade Authority” for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement – a secret deal negotiated behind closed doors by government bureaucrats and more than 600 corporate lobbyists.

GVP Tucker: Seaway Task Force Working to Support Good Jobs

The Seaway Task Force, a coalition of labor, investors and company professionals, is making considerable progress in its mission to update aged shipping infrastructure and sustain and grow new jobs in the Great Lakes, writes IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Lynn Tucker, Jr., in a guest editorial to the Great Lakes Seaway Review.

2015 Per Capita Tax Announced

The Grand Lodge monthly per capita tax for 2015 will be $33.23 reports General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr., in a letter to all IAM District and Local Lodges. The figure was calculated using the formula approved by Delegates to the 2008 Grand Lodge Convention.

Martin Named Special Representative for Canada

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed District 78 Directing Business Representative Ralph Martin to Special Representative for Canada.

New Contact Info for IAM Employee Assistance Program

IAM members needing the confidential services of the IAM Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can contact an EAP facilitator directly at 1-800-788-9044, by email at iameap@iamaw.org, or by calling the Retiree, Community and Membership Services Department at 301-967-3433.

Labor Heads to Polls on Election Day 2014

It’s Election Day, and millions of working families are making their voices heard in pivotal federal, state and local elections. Our vote determines the balance of power in the halls of Congress and our state legislatures and, ultimately, whether working people win on issues like raising the minimum wage, equal pay and stopping anti-union right-to-work laws.

IAM Members Ratify New Contract at Auto Truck Transport

IAM members at Auto Truck Transport have ratified a new four-year contract.

IAM Forest Products Workers Keep Momentum Rolling

IAM Forest Products Industry workers and representatives met for the second time this year to build on the momentum started at the last meeting in Fort Worth, TX to develop bargaining, organizing, communication and other strategies that will benefit IAM wood, pulp and paper members in that sector.

Ohio Local 1943 President Talks Unions and Getting Out the Vote

Union members must get out and vote as if their jobs depended on it – because they do, especially in Republican-controlled states like Ohio, said Local 1943 President and Directing Business Representative Neil Douglas of Middletown, OH, during an interview with online radio show America’s Work Force Radio.

Union Plus Introduces Mortgage Grants for Veterans

The American dream of homeownership is far too often out of reach, especially for those who make significant sacrifices to protect our country.

Make Your Voice Heard On Election Day November 4

If you haven’t already voted early, be sure to make a plan to go to the polls on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4.

IAM Mourns Wichita Plane Crash Victims

The IAM mourns the at least four people who died Thursday after a small plane crashed into and ignited a fire inside the FlightSafety International building near Mid-Continent Airport in Wichita, KS.

International Unions Support IAM-Delta Flight Attendant Campaign

The IAM and International Transport Workers Federation (ITF)-affiliated unions from the SkyTeam airline alliance today held strategic meetings and informational picketing at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Delta’s largest hub, to support Delta Air Lines Flight Attendants’ campaign for IAM representation.

Roeper to Lead IAM Health and Welfare Department

IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr., has appointed Maria Roeper as Director and Counsel of the newly-formed IAM Health and Welfare Programs Department, effective November 1, 2014.

Deadline to Attend 2014 Guide Dogs Banquet is October 31

The deadline to reserve a seat at the 34th Annual William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet at the 2014 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Conference in Las Vegas is October 31.

Machinists Union Opposes Fast Track Gimmickry

The IAM is fully engaged in the national AFL-CIO campaign against Fast Track.

Fast Track is a legislative gimmick being considered in Congress that would make it easier for advocates of Big Trade to pass the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP), without a full and open debate. Fast Track and TPP would give U.S. corporations yet another “free pass” to move jobs overseas to countries where workers are deprived of basic freedoms.

IAM Member Makes Flawless Case for Modern Unions

An op-ed penned by Maine paralegal Carol Sanborn, a member of IAM Local S89, tells her own unique story of joining the IAM and takes outdated anti-union sentiment to task in the process.

2014 IAM Photo Contest Winners Announced

Results of the 2014 IAM Photo Contest are in and the 2015 Calendar is rolling off the presses.

Make Sure Your Halloween Treats Are Union Made

Don’t get caught unprepared when trick-or-treaters come knocking this Halloween. Make sure you have a full supply of union-made-in-America treats for all the witches, vampires and pirates that stop by your doorstep.

Machinists Union, Southwest Airlines Reach Tentative Contract

The IAM announced it reached a tentative agreement with Southwest Airlines covering approximately 6,500 Passenger Service and Reservations Agents.

IAM Scores Organizing Hat Trick in Texas

The Southern Territory this week announced their latest organizing victory for 1,000 mechanics, technicians and maintenance personnel employed by URS at the Red River Army Depot (RRAD) near Texarkana, TX. The win follows a pair of successful territory campaigns earlier this year that organized 925 military helicopter mechanics, technicians and maintenance personnel employed by L3 at the Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) in Corpus Christi, TX.

Tennessee State Council Hosts Fall Meeting

Delegates from across the Volunteer State traveled to Nashville, TN recently for a full weekend of activities at the semi-annual meeting of the Tennessee State Council of Machinists. Despite a current political environment in Tennessee that is decidedly anti-worker and anti-union, the delegates are fully engaged in the upcoming midterm elections, supporting worker-friendly candidates from Memphis to Knoxville and from Clarksville to Chattanooga.

Herrnstadt to Serve on Key Aerospace Advisory Committee

IAM Chief of Staff Owen Herrnstadt will be the first ever trade union representative appointed to serve on a U.S. Industry Trade Advisory Committee (ITAC). He will be serving on the committee concerned with aerospace equipment and will represent the IAM’s viewpoint as part of U.S. labor’s interests in the aerospace industry.

Traveling Quilt Welcomed at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital

Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN, is now the proud owner of a bright yellow quilt made by IAM members Angela Duren and Paula Skelton.

Deadline to Reserve Guide Dogs Conference Hotel is October 24

The deadline to book a hotel room at the discounted rate for the 2014 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Conference in Las Vegas is October 24, 2014. This year’s conference will be held November 20-22.

Machinist Union Members Win New Contract at Schneider Electric, Strike Ends

Members of IAM Local 2069 voted to accept an improved offer from Schneider Electric and end a two-week strike by more than 300 IAM members in Schneider’s Square D facility in Peru, IN.

Wichita Machinists at Textron Aviation Vote to Accept Joint Contract

Members of IAM District 70 at Textron Aviation voted 73 to 27 percent to unify under a single six-year collective bargaining agreement that commits to growing aerospace jobs in Wichita, preserves member seniority and increases pay.

IAM Automotive Conference Focuses on Future

The 2014 IAM Automotive Conference in Fort Lauderdale, FL brought together IAM representatives and activists from North America’s automotive and trucking industries to assess the state of the industry six years after its collision with the 2008 Recession and to plan bargaining and organizing strategies for the future.

Labor Secretary Lauds Unions as Key to Prosperity

U.S. Labor Secretary Thomas Perez, speaking at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, promoted the role labor unions have in sustaining and growing the middle class and called for a raise in the minimum wage and a nationwide paid family leave law.

Illinois Machinists Host Rally with AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka

IAM District 9, Local 660 in East Alton, IL, hosted AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka at a rally of members from the Greater Madison County Federation of Labor, Southwestern Illinois Central Labor Council, and the Southwestern Illinois Building and Construction Trades.

IAM Transportation Safety Program Wins National Safety Council Honors

The IAM’s Joint Air Transport Safety Committee (JATSC) was recognized by the National Safety Council as a recipient of their “Exemplary Service to Safety Award” for their ongoing efforts to protect the safety and health of the workers in the airline industry. The JATSC was established by the IAM’s Transportation Department with representatives from all the airline districts.

Supreme Court Upholds North Carolina Voter Suppression

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled the state of North Carolina can implement a voter suppression law that cuts early voting, ends same-day registration and prohibits out-of-precinct voting.

Deadlines Near to Register for 2014 Guide Dogs Conference

The deadline to book a hotel room at the discounted rate for the 2014 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Conference in Las Vegas is October 24, 2014. This year’s conference will be held November 20-22.

IAM Members Save with Union Plus Car Insurance

Did you know that IAM members who’ve switched to Union Plus Auto Insurance have saved an average of $565 on car insurance?

IAM Wins Top Honors in 2014 ILCA Labor Media Awards

The Machinists Union won several top honors in the annual International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) Labor Media Awards contest, which honors the best in labor journalism.

Talks to Resume Over Strike at Schneider Electric

Negotiations between IAM Local 2069 and representatives of Schneider Electric Square D in Peru, IN are poised to resume on October 15 in Chicago, IL. Workers at the plant began a strike after voting to reject a contract proposal from Schneider that froze workers’ defined benefit pension plan and failed to address key wage, health care and benefit demands.

Machinists Achieve Fifth Joint Contract at United Airlines

The IAM announced it reached a tentative contract covering approximately 165 fleet technical and emergency procedures instructors at United Airlines.

Join the ‘Stop Fast Track’ Week of Action Nov. 8-14

The IAM will be joining labor and other trade and advocacy organizations in a week-long push to stop Congress from passing “Fast Track Trade Authority” for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement – a secret deal negotiated behind closed doors by government bureaucrats and more than 600 corporate lobbyists.

Tell Congress to vote NO on Fast Track for the TPP

Ebola Guidance Issued by OSHA

Due to the increasing concerns related to the Ebola virus, OSHA has issued a new web page on ebola that provides information about the disease and how to protect workers.  It includes sections on the disease itself, hazard recognition, medical information, standards for protecting workers, control and prevention, and additional resources. The page provides protection information for health care workers, airline and other travel industry personnel, mortuary and death care workers, laboratory workers, border customs and quarantine workers, emergency responders and workers in other critical sectors.  It also links to the CDC and NIOSH web pages on Ebola.

IAM Mourns Loss of CAL FIRE Pilot Geoffrey “Craig” Hunt

The IAM is mourning the loss of California Local 946 member and Dyncorp pilot Geoffrey “Craig” Hunt who was killed in a crash in Yosemite National Park while flying a CAL FIRE S-2T Airtanker. Hunt was helping fight the Dog Rock Fire that was threatening dozens of homes in the nearby community of Foresta.

IndustriALL Backs IAM Strikers at Schneider Electric

The strike to protect pay and pensions by IAM members employed by French-owned Schneider Electric in Peru, IN is drawing support from union allies around the world. The latest declaration of solidarity comes from IndustriALL General Secretary Jyrki Raina.

Kentucky Local 219 Welcomes Shuler, Grimes

IAM Local 219 members on strike at Allsource Global Management (AGM) at the Bluegrass Station Army Depot in Lexington, KY, had some important visitors to the picket lines. Alison Lundergan Grimes, running against Mitch McConnell (R-KY) for the U.S. Senate in Kentucky, stood strong with the 170 IAM members, and questioned whether Sen. McConnell was ensuring the jobs at Bluegrass Station remained good jobs.

Deadlines for the 2014 Guide Dogs Conference Are Fast Approaching

The deadline to book a hotel room at the discounted rate for the 2014 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Conference in Las Vegas is October 24, 2014.

Report: Right-to-Work States Get 'Free Ride' Off American Taxpayers

Workers in states with so-called “right-to-work” laws on average receive a disproportionate amount of public assistance, compared with the federal income taxes they pay, than workers in states that require every worker to pay their fair share for union representation, according to a report released by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

St. Louis IAM Members to Provide Parts to 777X Program

IAM members of District 837 in St. Louis, MO will supply parts that will support the 777X composite wing center in Everett, WA. The announcement came at a press conference including Governor Jay Nixon (D), Boeing officials, state legislators and IAM representatives.

320 Indiana Machinists at Schneider Electric On Strike

Approximately 320 IAM Local 2069 members are on strike against Schneider Electric in Peru, IN. The workers hit the streets at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014.

Social Security Field Office Closures Threaten Elderly, Disabled

Half-a-million Americans have signed onto a petition by Social Security advocacy groups demanding that the program’s community field offices stay open throughout the U.S.

Make Reservations for the 2014 Guide Dogs Conference

The 2014 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Conference will be held November 20-22, 2014 in Las Vegas.

Union Leader Elected Sweden’s New Prime Minister

The IAM welcomed news that former welder and global trade union partner Stefan Löfven has been elected as Sweden’s next Prime Minister.

Lockheed Contractor Triggers IAM Strike in Kentucky

IAM members employed by Allsource Global Management (AGM) at the Bluegrass Station Army Depot in Lexington, KY voted overwhelmingly to strike after the company refused to bargain in good faith over sweeping pay cuts it proposed for the workforce of nearly 170 employees.

IAM Locals Join Forces for Upcoming ULA Negotiations

A trio of local lodges from Alabama, Florida and California sent representatives to the William W. Winpisinger Center recently for an intensive week of training in preparation for upcoming contract negotiations with United Launch Alliance (ULA).

Report: Pentagon Skirting Buy American Act, Costing U.S. Jobs

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) spent over $163 billion of taxpayer money on goods manufactured by foreign companies since 2007, according to a report released by U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT).

Why You Shouldn’t Forget About This Year’s Gubernatorial Elections

The battle for control of the U.S. Senate is rightfully getting a lot of press going into the November midterm, but voters will also cast ballots in 27 governor’s races – over a dozen of which could be very close contests.

Make Reservations for 2014 Guide Dogs Conference

The 2014 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Conference will be held November 20-22, 2014 in Las Vegas.

Wisconsin Local 2053 Completes WWW Negotiation Prep Program

Members of the IAM Local 2053 Bargaining Committee, representing approximately 180 production and maintenance employees at Maysteel, LLC in Allentown, WI, attended the Negotiation Prep program at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

Little Appointed Education Representative to IAM Southern Territory

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed IAM Local 776A member James Little as Education Representative for the Southern Territory, effective October 1.

IAM Helps Refurbish a Habitat for Humanity ReStore

IAM members from Headquarters helped refurbish a building that will house a new Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Silver Spring, MD. The project involved scraping, painting and moving items into place in anticipation of the store’s opening on November 1.

Dems Urge Rules Against Child Labor in U.S. Tobacco Fields

Reps. David Cicilline (D-RI) and Matt Cartwright (D-PA) have urged the Labor Department to implement rules that prohibit child workers on U.S. tobacco farms.

Indiana Local 153 Trumps Crescent Plastics’ ‘Last, Best and Final’ Offer

Members of IAM Local 153 recently triumphed after a more than eight-month fight for a fair and just contract at Crescent Plastics in Evansville, IN.

GOP Mishap Affirms Cozy Relationship With Corporate Donors

Oops.

That’s what the Republican Governor’s Association (RGA) is likely thinking after a coding error on its website revealed the association’s corporate donors and the size of their checks.

IAM Members Graduate from EAP-Special Topics Class

More than 20 IAM members graduated from the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Special Topics training, the first advanced EAP course delivered by the IAM Retirees, Community and Membership Services Department at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

Iowa Alliance for Retired Americans Honors Kourpias

The Iowa Alliance for Retired Americans honored Alliance President Emeritus and former IAM International President George J. Kourpias with its first annual George J. Kourpias Awards Dinner and ceremony in Altoona, IA.

Restrictive North Carolina Voting Law Challenged in Court

A federal appeals court is hearing oral arguments in a case challenging North Carolina’s new restrictive voting law that cuts early voting, ends same-day registration and prohibits out-of-precinct voting.

Exclusive Union Plus Benefits for IAM Members

Whether fighting for justice on the job, preserving retirement security, or protecting the interests of workers, the IAM is always working hard for you and your family.

United Maintenance Instructors Ratify Contract

IAM District 141 has announced that Maintenance Instructors at United Airlines overwhelmingly ratified a new agreement.

Make Reservations for 2014 Guide Dogs Conference

The 2014 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Conference will be held November 20-22, 2014 in Las Vegas.

Missouri House Honors IAM Local 778 Activist Don Long

A resolution by the Missouri House of Representatives honoring departed friend and union brother, IAM activist Don Long of Local 778, Kansas City, MO, was presented to his family at the Missouri State Council of Machinists conference.

Retiree Activists to GOP: ‘Hands Off’ Our Social Security, Medicare

A coalition of Congressional Democrats and labor and retiree activists took to Capitol Hill to remind voters ahead of the midterm elections that the Republican “prosperity” agenda is going after our hard-earned Social Security and Medicare benefits.

2015 IAM Scholarship Competition Details Announced

The deadline to apply for a 2015 IAM Scholarship Award will be here before you know it. Applications must be postmarked no later than February 25, 2015 to be considered.

New Haven Exhibit Features Winchester-IAM History

When the Olin-Winchester plant closed and left New Haven, CT in 2006, the stories of its dedicated workers throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries remained. Now, memories of the men and women who organized and worked at the plant live on in an exhibit in the building that served as the firearm manufacturer’s plant.

Machinists Laud Allison Beck as White House Choice to Lead FMCS

The IAM applauds the White House recommendation of former IAM General Counsel Allison Beck to serve as the next Director of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS).

IL Governor Pat Quinn Invites IAM to Governor’s Mansion

Hearing that the Illinois State Council of Machinists and IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger would be in Springfield, IL, Gov. Pat Quinn invited IAM leaders to a breakfast at the governor’s mansion to discuss issues important to Machinist members.

Pennsylvania Local 1403 Strikes Precision Custom Components

Entering their third week on the picket lines, more than 100 members of IAM Local 1403 are holding the line at York, PA-based Precision Custom Components (PCC).

Robert Roach, Jr., Golf Tournament Raises Nearly $18K for Guide Dogs

Dozens of IAM members, leaders and friends gathered for a day on the golf course at the Robert Roach, Jr., Invitational Golf Tournament to benefit Guide Dogs of America (GDA). The event, held on the nine-hole golf course at the IAM’s William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD, raised nearly $18,000.

Watch “Golfing for Guide Dogs” on the Machinists News Network

Ex-Im Bank Extension Clears Hurdle, But Agency Remains in Danger

A spending bill passed by the House of Representatives will keep the federal government open until at least December 11, but includes only a nine-month extension of the U.S. Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank.

Tell Congress to reauthorize the Ex-Im Bank

The Bad Idea That Won’t Go Away: In-Flight Cell Phone Calls

Allowing airline passengers to make in-flight cell phone calls – as two government agencies are considering – would cause an unnecessary safety and security risk to both passengers and flight crews, writes IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger in a letter to members of Congress.

Machinists Union Leaders Cheer Sweden’s Election Results

The IAM welcomed news that former welder and trade union leader Stefan Löfven is poised to become Sweden’s next Prime Minister.

Chicago Unions Rally in Support of Striking IAM Local 701 Mechanics

Unions representing 500,000 members in Chicago and Cook County, IL rallied in East Dundee, IL, to support the IAM Automobile Mechanics Local 701 members on strike at Piemonte Chevrolet.

Just Say No to ‘Fast Track’ of Job-Killing TPP Trade Deal

The IAM is joining a coalition of nearly 600 organizations in demanding robust Congressional and public oversight over negotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a massive free trade deal that threatens workers’ rights, the environment, food and product safety, internet freedom, patent rights and more.

Tell Congress you want fair trade, not free trade, in the TPP.

First Canadian Political Action Symposium a Success

Ninety Canadian IAM members journeyed to the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Center in Hollywood, MD, for the first-ever Canadian Political Action Committee (PAC) Symposium Center. IAM Canada staff, along with Political Action Committee members from District and Local Lodges, met to create a national agenda for political action, as well as individual action plans for Districts and Locals working toward an election in 2015.

Georgia Local 709 Memorial Ride Takes in $6K for Guide Dogs

The Jeff Goen Memorial Ride for Guides, hosted by IAM Local 709 in Marietta, GA, took in over $6,000 for Guide Dogs of America, a non-profit organization founded by an IAM member that provides guide dogs to visually-impaired men and women free of charge.

Registration Deadline for Community Service Class Extended

The deadline to register for the Community Service Class, by the IAM Retirees, Community and Member Services Department, has been extended to September 24.

The IAM Remembers 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

IAM Transportation General Vice President Sito Pantoja today issued the following statement to mark the somber anniversary of 9/11.

IAM Announces Labor Studies Partnership with SUNY Empire State College

The IAM and the State University of New York (SUNY) Empire State College (ESC) announced a new partnership that will allow IAM members to pursue higher education degrees from the ESC Harry Van Arsdale Jr. Center for Labor Studies and the ESC School of Graduate Studies. Classes will be offered at the IAM’s William W. Winpisinger Education Center in Hollywood, MD.

Brianna Gregory to Join IAM Transportation Department

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has announced the appointment of Brianna Gregory as IAM Transportation Department Education Representative.

Enroll in the IAM Employee Assistance Program III Now

There’s still time to join the IAM’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) III class at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD on October 5-10, 2014.

IAM Band unioNation Looking for Musicians

The IAM’s popular unioNation band is growing. Do you want to be a part of history?

Meet the Koch Sisters: ‘So Not Related to Those Guys’

You’ve probably heard of the Koch brothers – right-wing billionaires who buy elections and peddle influence to further their business interests.

Now it’s time to meet the Koch sisters.

No Surprise Here: Nikki Haley Campaign Ad Attacks Labor

Republican South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, facing a tough re-election fight in November, is wasting no time throwing darts at her favorite target: organized labor.

IAM Supports Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize Ex-Im Bank

With only three weeks left before the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank is scheduled to shut its doors, IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger is urging U.S. Senators to support a bipartisan bill to keep the lending agency running through 2019.

Tell Congress to support a full reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank.

Victory for Fighting Machinists of Long Beach Local 1930

The California Court of Appeals has upheld a 2012 Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) decision that the City of Long Beach illegally furloughed its employees in 2009.

IAM Southern Territory Nabs Pegasus Corp. Organizing Win

In another organizing win, the IAM Southern Territory picked up a unanimous “yes” vote by 14 workers at Pegasus Corp. at the Red River Army Depot near Texarkana, TX.  It is the first of many expected votes at the facility, where the IAM has active organizing campaigns with several service contract employers at the base covering nearly 1,000 workers.

Fundraising Tournament Raises Over $10K for Guide Dogs

The IAM Battle of the Boards Cornhole Tournament raised over $10,000 for Guide Dogs of America, a non-profit organization founded by an IAM member that provides guide dogs to visually-impaired men and women free of charge.

Online Protest in Support of Net Neutrality on Sept. 10

On Wednesday, September 10, 2014, prepare for your internet to slow down. Well, in theory, at least.

Web activists are planning an online protest to press federal regulators for stronger rules to protect net neutrality. On September 10, websites across the internet will display an alert with a symbolic "loading" symbol (the proverbial “spinning wheel of death”), which symbolizes how internet traffic could be slowed down if the FCC doesn’t create stronger net neutrality rules.

DOT Rejects Norwegian Air Exemption

The Department of Transportation has rejected Norwegian Air International's (NAI) request for an exemption to launch a "new" airline that would violate U.S. public interest laws and the US-EU Open Skies agreement.

IAM Western Territory Conference: ‘Mentor, Organize and Win’

Business Representatives, Organizers and Local Lodge officers from the IAM Western Territory recently descended upon Denver for the 2014 Western Territory Staff Conference.

Stone Joins IAM Communications Department

International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed Chattanooga, TN, Local 56 President and IAM District 711 Communicator Tim Stone to join the IAM Communications Department as a Communications Representative, effective September 1.

Famous IAM District 19 Bell Receives a Machinist Makeover

An important piece of IAM history received a much-needed makeover thanks to dedicated IAM members from across the country. The much-loved District 19 bell – often kidnapped and held for ransom as a fundraising tool at various Grand Lodge Conventions and district and transportation conferences – was recently refurbished by members of IAM Local 165 in Roanoke, VA.

IAM Maine Lobstering Union to Hold GDA Golf Tournament

The inaugural IAM Maine Lobstering Union (IMLU) Local 207 Golf Tournament to benefit the Guide Dogs of America will take place Sunday, September 7 at the newly-renovated Boothbay Harbor Country Club in Boothbay, ME.

New Poll Shows Success of ‘Right-To-Work’ Deception

A majority of Americans, 53 percent, approve of labor unions, yet more than seven in 10 say they would vote for a so-called “right-to-work” law, according to a newly released Gallup poll.

Progressives Fighting to Put Teeth Back into Voting Rights Act

When the conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court stripped a key section from the 1965 Voting Rights Act (VRA) last summer, it effectively put Congress in charge of repairing the historic legislation.

Register Now for GDA Golf Tournament at WWW Center

Want to spend a day on the golf course for a good cause? Register today for the Robert Roach, Jr., Invitational Golf Tournament, benefiting the Guide Dogs of America.

Salt Lake City Local 568 Raises Over $5k for Guide Dogs

IAM Local 568 raised $5,500 at its 6th annual car show in support of Guide Dogs of America in Stansbury Park, UT. The support from the community was overwhelming with over 90 cars participating and 33 awards.

Moral Monday Movement Launches #TalkUnion Tour

The Moral Monday Movement has concluded another series of protests to expose and challenge destructive laws in North Carolina.

IAM Video Unveils True Labor Day Founder

Ever wondered who founded Labor Day? Well, word has always had it that the holiday, dedicated to honoring working men and women, was started by a Machinists member. A new video produced by the Machinists News Network investigates.

APRI Honors Babineaux with “Rosa Tucker Award”

IAM General Vice President Diane Babineaux received the “Rosa Tucker Award” at the 45^th National A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) Education Conference in Reno, NV.

Rodriguez Named Special Representative to IAM Southern Territory

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed IAM District W2 Assistant Directing Business Representative Valerie Rodriguez as a Special Representative for the Southern Territory, effective September 1.

Silbas to Join IAM Legislative Department

General Vice President Diane Babineaux announced that 23-year IAM member Monica Lee Silbas will join the IAM’s Politics and Legislative Department as a Legislative Representative effective September 1, 2014. Silbas currently serves as the Educational Representative for the Transportation Department.

10-year-old Guide Dog Retires with Honors

A 10-year-old guide dog was recently given a retirement and homecoming party to remember.

Machinists Union Files for Mediation at Southwest Airlines

After more than two years of direct talks with Southwest Airlines, the IAM announced it will file for mediation with the National Mediation Board (NMB), the federal agency that oversees contract negotiations in the airline industry.

Obama Throws Support Behind Ex-Im Bank

In his weekly address, President Obama asked Americans to use Congress’ August recess to demand their elected officials support a full reauthorization of the suddenly controversial Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank.

Click here to tell your Representative to support a full reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank.

Local 99 Calgary Stampede Members Prepare for Negotiations

Members of IAM Local 99, who work for the Calgary Stampede entertainment venue in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, attended the Negotiation Preparation class at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Southern Maryland to prepare for upcoming contract negotiations.

Register Now for the 2014 IAM Automotive Conference

The deadline to reserve a hotel for the 2014 IAM Automotive Conference is September 5, 2014.

IAM Automotive Department Director Boysen Anderson will chair the conference, which will focus on new approaches to expanding IAM automotive membership in North America.

Tune in to Sportsman Channel’s “Brotherhood Outdoors” Labor Day Marathon

The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) and Sportsman Channel are combining efforts to honor the contributions of the American worker and celebrate today’s youth, who represent the future of our nation’s workforce and outdoor heritage. Sportsman Channel’s Brotherhood Outdoors Labor Day Marathon, a salute to American workers and a celebration of youth in the outdoors, airs exclusively on Monday, September 1 from 5–8 p.m. ET.

IAM, United Reach Tentative Agreement for Maintenance Instructors

IAM District 141 and United Airlines have reached a tentative agreement for IAM-represented maintenance instructors.

ITF Congress Elects IAM, TCU Reps to Key Leadership Positions

The 43rd International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) Congress in Sofia, Bulgaria featured a week of strategizing to protect transportation workers globally.

Young Machinists Chart IAM’s Future at New WWW Class

Nearly 30 of the IAM’s next generation of leaders and activists gathered at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Southern Maryland for the first-ever Young Machinists pilot program.

Pelletier: ‘Employee Freedom Week’ is an Anti-Worker Sham

The Big Business-backed “Employee Freedom Week,” which ran from August 10 to 16, was merely an attempt to turn public opinion against unions and convince workers to vote against their own interests, writes Connecticut AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer and IAM member Lori Pelletier.

Machinists Come Together to Support Native Veterans

IAM members lent a helping hand to veterans at the American Lake Veterans Administration, just outside of Joint Base Lewis McChord in Tacoma, WA. The base supports Native-American ceremonies for military personnel suffering from PTSD and other issues like substance abuse.

Unions Urge DOT to Deny Norwegian Air Scam

The IAM, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA), and the Transport Workers Union (TWU) called on the Department of Transportation (DOT) to reject an application for a foreign air carrier permit submitted by Norwegian Air International (NAI). In comments filed yesterday, the unions, representing over 80,000 Flight Attendants, urged the DOT to uphold the strong labor protections outlined in the U.S.-E.U. Air Transport Agreement (ATA) known as Open Skies.

IAM Mourns Fallen Lobsterman Jeremy Philbrook

The IAM Maine Lobstering Union (IMLU) Local 207 mourns the loss of member Jeremy Philbrook, who died on the job last week after falling overboard and drowning, investigators believe. Philbrook, 36, was an early, key supporter of the formation of the IMLU.

Tell Congress VA Nurses and Doctors Deserve Meaningful Collective Bargaining Rights

Over the last several years, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare professionals have seen their collective bargaining rights practically eliminated. Agency management’s improperly broad interpretation of a certain provision in federal labor law, Sec. 7422 of Title 38, has allowed them to circumvent the bargaining process on numerous critical issues.

Jorgensen Forge Workers Vote to Join IAM District 751

By a 3-to-2 margin, workers who forge essential components used on aircraft, drilling rigs and ships have voted to join Machinists Union District Lodge 751 in Seattle.

Hardwick Appointed Western Territory Communications Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed District 947 Business Representative Jason Hardwick as the new Western Territory Communications Representative.

Register Now for the IAM Battle of the Boards Charity Cornhole Tournament

Mark your calendar for the IAMAW Battle of the Boards Charity Cornhole Tournament to benefit Guide Dogs of America on Saturday, September 6, 2014 at Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro, MD.

IAM Dedicates New Buffenbarger Library at Winpisinger Center

IAM members attending the William W. Winpisinger Center in Southern Maryland will have a valuable new resource, the R. Thomas Buffenbarger Library, to learn about how the IAM persevered through one of the most turbulent periods in labor history.

Machinists Union Supports 2014 LCLAA Convention

IAM leaders and members from across the country joined hundreds of delegates for the 20th National Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) Convention in Houston.

IAM Helping Southern Workers Rise Up

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger said on his monthly call to America’s Workforce Radio (AWF) that he sees a “wave of organizing” beginning in the southern United States.

TCU/IAM Videos Highlight Members, Recent Bargaining Achievements

Delegates to the 34th Regular TCU/IAM Convention in Las Vegas were privy to the premiere showing of two videos, produced by the Machinists News Network, in honor of TCU/IAM members’ hard work, dedication and recent achievements within the union’s 115-year history.

Why a University President Gave Up $90K of His Salary

Raymond Burse, the interim president at Kentucky State University (KSU), is putting his money where his mouth is.

Asked to temporarily lead the university he headed for much of the 1980s, Burse said he’d return on one condition: the school’s minimum-wage workers get a raise. He even told KSU’s board he would forego $90,000 of his salary so that the 24 minimum-wage workers on the Frankfort, KY campus can make $10.10 an hour.

Machinists to Sue Spirit AeroSystems Over Plan to Outsource Jobs

The IAM filed a lawsuit on Friday, August 8, 2014 against Spirit AeroSystems over the company’s plans to outsource IAM-represented jobs by selling a key fabrication operation and the use of outside contractors to perform work currently done by IAM-represented Spirit employees.

Local 1720 Preps for Ashland Chemicals Negotiations

Kentucky IAM Local 1720 Negotiating Committee members at Ashland Chemicals prepared for upcoming contract negotiations at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Southern Maryland.

Staples Boycott Still On as USPS Continues Outsourcing

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) didn’t go far enough when the agency canceled its pilot program which effectively replaced postal workers with non-union, less-trained and lower-paid Staples employees, says American Postal Workers Union (APWU) President Mark Dimondstein.

Register Now to Win Union Plus $10K Student Loan Contest

Struggling with the financial burden of your student loans?  The IAM and Union Plus may be able to help.

IAM, TWU Alliance Moves Forward with American Airlines Single Carrier Filing

In a move that will lead to joint contract negotiations for more than 30,000 members of the IAM and Transport Workers Union (TWU), the two unions recently jointly petitioned the National Mediation Board (NMB) asking it declare that post-merger American Airlines and US Airways are now operating as a single transportation system for employees in the Mechanic and Related, Fleet Service and Stores classifications.

Machinists Win Arbitration, Protect Maryland IKEA Workers

The IAM has won an arbitration case against IKEA after the Swedish furniture company refused union officials access to its IAM-represented Perryville, MD warehouse. Local I-460, District 4 members at the factory had alerted the IAM of unsafe trailers, cut seatbelts, needles left on the control of forklifts and other safety violations.

New Jersey Auto Tech Apprentice Program Continues Success

The IAM has successfully placed a fifth class of New Jersey high school graduates into apprenticeships at IAM-represented auto dealers and trucking companies through the Youth Transition to Work (YTTW) Auto and Diesel Technician Program.

NAACP, Labor Go All In for Justice, Equality

The IAM joined thousands of civil rights, labor and community activists at the 105th NAACP Convention in Las Vegas recently to reaffirm their commitment to justice and equality.

Ohio Local 1943 Promotes IAM at Butler County Fair

A 163-year-old Ohio tradition, the Butler County Fair has also proven to be a great opportunity for Middletown, OH Local 1943 to increase its visibility and generate possible organizing leads. Local 1943 operated a booth at the fair this July, just as they have for the past six years.

Increased Pay, Retirement Security for New IAM Members in Texas

More than 900 newly-organized L3 Communications workers at Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) have overwhelmingly ratified a first contract that includes handsome raises, a cap on health-insurance cost increases and a defined-benefit pension plan.

DOL Signs Off on IAM Grand Lodge Election Results

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued its official determination on the election of Grand Lodge Officers of the IAM.

UPS, UPS Freight Members Ink New Five-Year Accords

More than 4,000 IAM-represented mechanics at United Parcel Service (UPS) and UPS Freight have ratified new contracts that cover over 100 locations nationwide. The two IAM-UPS national agreements, one for UPS and the other for UPS Freight, are both five-year contracts.

Outsourcing United CEO Feeling Heat from Congress

Members of Iowa’s congressional delegation are calling out United Airlines CEO Jeff Smisek for the carrier’s decision to outsource more than 600 jobs at 12 U.S. airports, including 48 jobs at Des Moines International Airport.

NFFE-IAM on Verge of Winning Health Care for Temporary Federal Employees

After years of fighting for health benefits for all temporary federal employees, NFFE-IAM achieved an enormous victory when the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recently proposed that temporary employees expected to work at least 90 days be eligible for the Federal Health Benefits (FEHB) Program.

Obama Issues Order to Protect Federal Contract Workers

President Obama has issued an executive order cracking down on federal government contractors that engage in wage theft, discrimination and other labor violations.

Ohio District 54 Scores Service Contract Victory

The IAM District 54 Negotiating Committee achieved important improvements in a newly-ratified agreement with Wolf Creek Federal Services at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, OH.

Bill Filed to Make Union Organizing a Civil Right

Los Angeles truck driver Alex Paz was fired when he attempted to organize his coworkers. Keyona Dandridge, a food service worker in Washington, DC, was told not to show up to work anymore after she struck for higher wages.

IAM Mourns Former GLR Charlie Williams

Former IAM Grand Lodge Representative and Midwest Political Director Charlie Williams died on Saturday, July 19, 2014 after losing his battle with bone cancer. He was 83 years old.

NLRB Rules McDonald’s Can’t Hide Behind Franchises That Exploit Workers

McDonald’s can be held jointly responsible for labor and wage violations at its thousands of franchises around the U.S., the general counsel of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled this week.

160 Georgia Aircraft Techs Vote 2 to 1 for IAM

The Southern Territory continues its winning ways with an important organizing victory at Hunter Army Airfield near Savannah, GA, where 160 Aircraft Maintenance Mechanics working for L-3 Vertex voted by more than two-to-one for IAM representation.

Boeing CEO Regrets ‘Cowering’ Employees Gaffe

Boeing CEO Jim NcNerney sent a companywide message saying a comment he made during an earnings call with reporters last week was a “joke gone bad.”

Tennessee Volunteers Raise $6K for GDA

More than four dozen motorcycle riders kicked off this year’s annual Tennessee Hawgs for Dogs ride to benefit Guide Dogs of America (GDA). The day-long event, which raised more than $6,000 for the IAM’s favorite charity, was organized and hosted by volunteers from District 711 and Tullahoma, TN Local 1501.

Mayor Marches 300 Miles to Urge Medicaid Expansion

Adam O’Neal, the Republican mayor of Belhaven, NC (pop. 1,688), recently completed a nearly 300-mile walk to the nation’s capital championing a cause that most in his party wouldn’t dare support publicly.

Register Now for 2014 LCLAA Convention

The 2014 Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) National Convention will take place August 6-8 at the Hilton Americas in Houston.

Female Mortality Rates Up; Union Jobs Can Help

New research yields particularly troubling trends in female mortality rates across much of the United States, said a panel of health experts at a recent forum on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.

TCU/IAM Opens Regular Convention

Hundreds of TCU/IAM members converged on Las Vegas this week for the 34^th Regular TCU/IAM Convention.

Netroots Nation Sets Sights on 2014 Midterm Elections

Get to the polls in November. That was the overall directive given to the more than 3,000 attendees of the 2014 Netroots Nation conference – one of the largest annual gatherings of progressive leaders, activists, bloggers, newsmakers, social justice advocates, labor leaders, organizational leaders, grassroots organizers and online activists in the country.

Benefits Preserved as New York Local 1180 Votes to End Calspan Strike

After nearly 10 weeks of unwavering solidarity on picket lines, 24 members of IAM Local 1180, District 65 in Western New York ratified a new three-year contract that preserves key benefits and ends a bitter strike at Calspan Corporation.

Maine Lobstering Union Members Featured in Mike Michaud Ad

Rock Alley, President of the newly-formed IAM Maine Lobstering Union, IMLU Local 207, and Julie Eaton, Local 207 Secretary-Treasurer, were featured in a recent TV ad promoting Maine Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mike Michaud, a longtime friend of the IAM.

Seattle District 751 Flight for Sight Run Raises $14K for Guide Dogs

More than 140 runners took part in IAM District 751’s annual Flight for Sight fun run, generating more than $14,000 for Guide Dogs of America.

Enter Union Plus Contest to Knock $10K Off Your Student Debt

Struggling with the financial burden of your student loans?  The IAM and Union Plus may be able to help.

Labor Shows Strong Presence at Farnborough Air Show

As multinational aerospace companies gathered at the Farnborough Air Show in England, the IAM and delegates from the IndustriALL Global Union met to confront challenges facing the millions of aerospace workers around the world.

Machinists Overwhelmingly Approve New Contracts at US Airways

The IAM has announced that approximately 11,000 maintenance training specialist, fleet service and mechanic and related employees approved new contracts by 96, 86 and 67 percent respectively at the "new" American Airlines.

Alabama Contractor Goes Full Pinocchio in Anti-Union Campaign

In a desperate bid to suppress support for the IAM in an upcoming union representation election, a government contractor at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL has begun holding captive audience meetings where employees are treated to a smorgasbord of threats, misinformation and outright lies.

IAM Remembers Actor James Garner for His Union Activism

The IAM mourns the passing of longtime actor, union and civil rights activist James Garner. The former “Maverick” and “Rockford Files” star died July 19, 2014 at the age of 86.

Tennessee VW Workers Achieve Union Representation

Workers at the Volkswagen (VW) manufacturing plant in Chattanooga, TN will now have the opportunity to join UAW Local 42. The recent announcement comes despite a narrowly-lost union election in February that was heavily influenced by outside sources, including numerous Republican politicians.

IAM-TCU Tentative Agreement Reached With LIRR

Within days of a strike that would have shut down the nation’s largest commuter railroad, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), its partner the Transportation Communications Union (TCU) and union coalition members today announced a tentative agreement has been reached with the Long Island Railroad (LIRR).

Grand Lodge Election Official Tellers Report Available

The Official Report of the Tellers for the Election of Grand Lodge Officers of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is now available. The report shows the tally of voting by IAM members that took place in Lodge meetings in the United States and Canada in April, 2014 and the counting of those votes that took place in May, 2014.

IAM Urges Support of Bill to End Outsourcing, Bring Jobs Home

The IAM is urging the Senate’s support of a bill that would stop rewarding multinational companies that offshore jobs. The “Bring Jobs Home Act” would eliminate the tax deduction U.S. companies receive for the costs associated with offshoring. 

Greenpeace Fundraisers Vote IAM

Members of the Greenpeace financing and fundraising department in Montréal, Canada became the newest members of IAM Local Lodge 712. 

Register Now for the 2014 IAM Automotive Conference

The 2014 IAM Automotive Conference is scheduled for October 7-10, 2014 at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Buffenbarger Taps Stassi as Transportation Special Rep

International President Tom Buffenbarger announced the appointment of Joe Stassi as Transportation Department Special Representative.

Still Time to Enter IAM Photo Contest

IAM photographers still have a chance to showcase the work your members do in the IAM Calendar.

IAM, TCU Set Strike Deadline at LIRR

After four years of contract negotiations, the IAM, TCU and six union coalition partners at the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), have announced a strike deadline of Sunday, July 20, 2014 at 12:01 a.m.

Young Machinists Program Lauded at COMTO Summit

After being previously honored by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) this past March, IAM General Vice President Diane Babineaux returned to the premier organization to share the IAM’s groundbreaking efforts to educate and train young workers in the transportation industry.

Oppose New OMB Rule to Use Bogus U.S. Trade Numbers

IAM members have until Monday, July 21 to oppose a new dangerous rule that would affect how the U.S. government develops statistics concerning manufactured goods.

Grand Lodge Bike Run Raises $5K for Guide Dogs

Sunny skies made for a perfect backdrop to the IAM Grand Lodge’s Inaugural Bike and Poker Run, which brought out about 45 participants and raised over $5,000 for Guide Dogs of America (GDA). The event was held in honor of IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr.

Machinists Win Certification For Aerocar Limousine Services in Vancouver

A courageous group of nearly 110 limousine drivers and airport greeters employed by Aerocar Limousine Services at the Vancouver International Airport overcame a fierce anti-union campaign to win IAM representation. The workers, who provide premium personal transportation to and from the airport and other locations, are the newest members of IAM Local 16 and IAM District 140.

Ohio Truck Drivers Vote IAM

Truck drivers employed at RMB Enterprises in Middletown, OH voted 2 to1 to become new members of IAM Local 1943 after a hard fought campaign.

IAM Hosts Union Member from ‘Down Under’

The IAM’s “sense of community” struck a chord with a recent visitor from Australia.

Local 701 Auto Mechanics Strike in Illinois

IAM Local 701 auto mechanics at Al Piemonte Chevrolet in East Dundee, IL have voted to go on strike. The new members have been in negotiations for a first contract since the end of May.

IAM Delta Campaign Lands in London

Illustrating the global reach of the IAM’s Delta Flight Attendant organizing campaign, IAM Delta organizers this week were greeted with tremendous support as campaign activities expanded to London.

Machinists Respond to Washington State Water Proposal

The IAM remains concerned that the fish consumption and water quality standards announced this week by Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee will jeopardize the economic health of the Puget Sound without adding significant improvements to the regions health and environmental quality.

New iPhone Hype Marred by Labor Abuse in the Philippines

You may want to think twice before upgrading to the newest Apple phone, unofficially dubbed the iPhone 6, rumored to be released this fall.

House Dems Expose Bogus U.S. Trade Numbers

A group of House Democrats are calling on the office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to stop using misleading export numbers when making its case for future trade agreements, like the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which is currently being negotiated in secret.

IAM Wins Election for Spirit Airlines Ramp Agents

In a hotly contested election overseen by the National Mediation Board (NMB), nearly 220 Spirit Airlines ramp agents voted overwhelmingly, by 80 percent, to be represented by the IAM.

Missouri Machinist Wins John Deere Tractor Raffle

Kansas City, MO Local 778 member Jason Capra recently won the 2016 IAM Grand Lodge Convention raffle for a John Deere Gator voucher worth $14,999.

IAM Lends Helping Hand to Special Olympics

The St. Mary’s County, MD Sheriff’s Department recently honored the IAM for raising nearly $700 for the Special Olympics.

Register Now for 2014 LCLAA Convention

The 2014 Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) National Convention will take place in Houston at the Hilton Americas from August 6 to 8, 2014.

New Report: Higher Minimum Wage Equals Job Growth

Extreme pro-business interests often argue that raising the minimum wage will lead to job losses, but the evidence suggests otherwise. The Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR) has found states that raised their minimum wage on January 1, 2014 have seen higher job growth than states where the minimum wage stayed the same.

IAM Members On Strike At Calspan To Hold Rally

IAM Local 1180 and District 65 will rally on Monday, July 7, 2014 in Buffalo, NY as a show of solidarity and support for IAM members and their families on strike at science and technology company Calspan.

Ohio Senator Slams United’s Outsourcing Plans

In a letter to United CEO Jeffrey Smisek, Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown (D) questioned the airlines’ recent decision to outsource certain smaller “line stations” to low-paid vendors.

Washington, DC Workers Choose NFFE-IAM in Hard-Fought Election

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) recently certified election results for 20 Washington, DC Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (BID) employees to be represented by NFFE-IAM. The campaign began earlier this year and culminated with an election on May 28.

Global Support Surges for South African Metalworkers’ Strike

South African police fired rubber bullets this week to disperse striking members of the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA), who were picketing outside a power station in the northern province of Limpopo.

Geny Ulloa Appointed IAM Midwest Territory Special Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed Geny Ulloa has been appointed to the position of Special Representative effective June 1, 2014. Ulloa is from District 165, Local 623 in St. Cloud, MN.

Have a Union-Made Fourth of July

Whether you’re hosting the barbeque or bringing snacks to watch the fireworks, make this 4th of July a union-made celebration.

IAM Reacts to Supreme Court Ruling on Harris v. Quinn

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5 to 4 that certain “partial public employees” in the public sector may not be required to pay their fair share of union dues. The case, Harris v. Quinn, concerns Medicaid-based home health-care workers in Illinois.

Long Island Rail Road Members Rally for Contract

With a possible strike looming next month, over 3,000 workers from the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and their supporters rallied to urge the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to come to the table and accept the recommendations of Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) 245.

July ‘IAM Journal’ Now Available

The July 2014 IAM Journal is now available to download via the new IAM Mobile 3.0 app.

President Vows to Continue ‘Doing His Job’ In Response to Boehner Lawsuit

In a one-finger salute to Republican House Speaker John Boehner, President Obama has vowed to continue his use of executive orders in order to get work done in Washington, DC.

New IAM Video Celebrates Civil Rights and Healthcare

As the nation marks the 50th anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, a new Machinists News Network video shows how the landmark legislation ended segregation in U.S. healthcare.

IAM Announces 2014 Scholarship Award Winners

The 2014 IAM Scholarship competition has concluded and the winners have been announced.

Conservatives Looking to Kill Ex-Im Bank, 200K Jobs

House Finance Service Committee Chairman Jeb Hensarling (R-TX) and his right-wing extremist allies continued their assault on the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank at a recent hearing on Capitol Hill, setting off testy exchanges between a bipartisan group who supports the bank and hard-right conservatives who would like to see its death.

Seattle District 751 Members’ Son Receives Medal of Honor

IAM District 751 member Curt White was filled with pride as he stood in the White House recently to watch President Obama present his son, Kyle, with the Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest military honor.

Machinists Endorse Malloy, Wyman For Re-Election in Connecticut Gubernatorial Race

Delegates of the Connecticut State Council of Machinists, representing more than 10,000 active and retired Connecticut workers, voted unanimously to endorse Gov. Dannel Malloy and Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman for re-election as leaders of Connecticut’s state government.

IndustriALL Adopts Emergency Resolution in Wake of Turkish Mine Disaster

One month after the mass killing of 301 mineworkers in an avoidable industrial disaster in Soma, Turkey, the Executive Committee of IndustriALL Global Union unanimously adopted an emergency resolution calling for the ratification and implementation of International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 176 on safety and health in mines. Union leaders also called for the reversal of illegal and irresponsible outsourcing and subcontracting in the country.

Still Time to Enter IAM Photo Contest

IAM photographers still have a chance to showcase the work your members do in the IAM Calendar.

Union Plus Introduces Enhanced Credit Card Program for Machinist Members

Union Privilege has announced the availability of the new Union Plus Machinists Credit Card designed to meet the needs of IAM members and their families.

Machinists Union Rallies Support for Ex-Im Bank

The IAM is urging its 600,000 members to oppose efforts to defund the U.S. Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank, the independent federal agency that provides critical loan guarantees and supports more than 200,000 U.S. jobs. The bank has become the latest target for extinction by the GOP’s right-wing ideologues in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Click here to contact your House Representative and demand full Ex-Im reauthorization today.

White House Convenes Summit on Working Families

A workplace that provides flexibility and practices that benefit working families not only makes for a better workplace, but it also increases productivity and reduces turnover, said President Obama at a recent White House Summit on Working Families in Washington, DC.

Living in Poverty? Get Married, Conservatives Say

Members of a panel on poverty at the conservative Faith and Family Coalition’s annual Road to Majority Conference in Washington, DC had a somewhat predictable solution for low-income Americans trying to move up the economic ladder – get married, stay married and don’t have a child until you’ve gotten married.

LAN Peru Strike Could Disrupt World Cup Travel in Brazil

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) reports concerns from passengers scheduled to fly on LAN and TAM flights due to a strike in Peru scheduled for Thursday, June 26. Unions report that more than 200 mechanics – over 70 percent of all LAN Peru mechanics – will not be certifying aircraft during the strike, which is expected to affect operations across Latin America, including during the World Cup.

unioNation First Album Available for Online Purchase, Digital Download

The IAM’s unioNation Band’s first album is now available for purchase at www.unionation.com. The two-disc recording is available via CD or digital download. Purchase price is $20 through PayPal.

IAM: U.S. Jobs Depend on Ex-Im Bank Reauthorization

The IAM is on the frontlines of fighting a dangerous Tea Party effort to shut down the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank, an independent federal agency that provides critical loan guarantees that support over 200,000 U.S. jobs, mostly in manufacturing.

FCC Rule Could Change What You See on the Internet

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is currently mulling a proposal that could change how we use the internet – more specifically, let internet service providers charge higher premiums for select content and possibly slow the connection and quality of other content.

New IAM Pension Video Spurs Debate at AFL-CIO Conference

Secretary-Treasurers from AFL-CIO-affiliated unions across the nation received a front row seat to the IAM’s premiere showing of “Pensions 101: Surviving Bankruptcy,” an introductory video to a new program the IAM is building to teach unions and union representatives how to better protect their members at companies facing corporate bankruptcy.

Register Now for Maryland’s First Hawgs for Dogs Bike Run

Start polishing your motorcycle for a scenic trip through Southern Maryland’s back roads for the inaugural Hawgs for Dogs Bike Run from IAM Headquarters to the William W. Winpisinger (W3) Center on Saturday, July 12, 2014. The bike run will honor IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr. and proceeds will benefit the Guide Dogs of America (GDA).

NFFE-IAM Young Federal Leaders Attend Inaugural Training

NFFE-IAM members from around the country came together at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center to take part in the first-ever Young Federal Leaders (YFL) training. The first-of-its-kind young worker training introduced the 35 rising stars within the union to the countless resources and opportunities available for their development as leaders, including the Winpisinger Center.

Members to Vote on Tentative Agreement at US Airways

The IAM announced it reached tentative agreements with US Airways on contracts covering approximately 11,000 mechanic and related, fleet service, maintenance training specialist and stock clerk employees.

Machinists Win Back-to-Back Organizing Drives in Texas

The IAM scored a second important organizing victory, this time for 475 office and clerical personnel employed by L3 at the Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) in Corpus Christi, TX. This follows an April organizing win for 450 helicopter mechanics and technicians at the same facility.

Unions Join North Carolina ‘Moral Monday’ Protest

IAM members were among the thousands of demonstrators outside the North Carolina Statehouse in Raleigh for the latest in a series of protests against the state’s ever-more radical GOP-led legislature.

Machinists Warn Jobs at Risk in Water Quality Debate

The IAM is calling on Washington state Governor Jay Inslee to update the state’s water quality standards in a way that protects the health of residents without imposing extreme measures that would threaten thousands of current and potential jobs.

Toronto Local 2921 Preps for Garda Contract Talks

The Negotiating Committee for Local 2921 recently met at the William W. Winpisinger Center in Southern Maryland to prepare for upcoming negotiations with Garda, a service provider that has a contract with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA).

NAS Whidbey Machinists Ratify First Union Contract

Machinists Union members who work for Doss Aviation at Whidbey Island Naval Air Station in Oak Harbor, WA will get wage and pension benefit increases after ratifying their first union contract.

Ohio Local 1943 Members Ratify New Accord with AK Steel

Members at IAM Local 1943 in Middletown, OH overwhelming ratified a new three-and-a-half-year accord. The deal comes nearly three months early after the employer AK Steel approached local leadership to enter into early negotiations. The current agreement covering nearly 1,700 IAM members at Middletown Works was set to expire September 15, 2014.

Machinist Coal Haulers Strike Gold with New Contract

IAM Local 684 members at Sydney Car Railway (SCR) in Sydney, Nova Scotia recently ratified a five-year collective bargaining agreement that will boost their pay more than 10 percent in the first year.

Buffenbarger Hits Airwaves to Defend South Carolina Workforce

In a recent interview on America’s Work Force (AWF) Radio, IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger tells the story of an interesting encounter he had with anti-union South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley (R) a few years back at an international aerospace trade show.

NFFE-IAM Helps Shoot Down GOP Attempt to Gag Unions

NFFE-IAM members recently helped defeat an amendment that would have virtually prohibited federal employees from using official time for union activities.

IAM Helps Secure Critical Maritime Port Funding

A bill recently signed into law by President Obama will help support thousands of IAM jobs by addressing the infrastructure needs of vital U.S. maritime ports.

Register Now for 2014 LCLAA Convention

The 2014 Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) National Convention will take place in Houston at the Hilton Americas from August 6 to 8, 2014. The convention brings together important Hispanic and labor leaders; local, state and national political figures; and a diverse coalition of non-profits, think-tanks and community-service organizations to create LCLAA’s agenda for the next two years.

IAM: Don’t Classify Foreign Goods as American Made

A ridiculous proposal to classify goods produced overseas by American companies as “Made in the USA” would skew manufacturing statistics and have serious implications on the economy, writes IAM Chief of Staff and Trade and Globalization Director Owen Herrnstadt in a recent Economic Policy Institute article.

Congresswoman Blasts United’s Embattled CEO Smisek

U.S. Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-OH) sharply criticized United CEO Jeffrey Smisek for the airline's decision to dramatically downsize its operation at Cleveland's Hopkins Airport.

Unions Tout Training, Skills Development in Alabama

IAM members and representatives attended the 30th annual Alabama Governor’s Labor Management Conference last week in Mobile, AL, using the event to tout the ability of the IAM and labor to help develop the skilled workforce needed to grow business and create jobs.

IAM, Labor Stand Up for Qatar Airways Flight Attendants

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) recently filed a complaint with the International Labour Organization (ILO) accusing Qatar Airways of workplace sex discrimination and restricting women’s rights. The complaint also alleges that the Qatari government is in breach of international obligations by turning a blind eye to the offenses.

GDA Hosting Online Auction Through June 15

The 2014 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Online Silent Auction is now open. The event will run until June 15, 2014 at 9 p.m. EDT.

One More Week to Register for IAM Safety and Health Conference

The registration deadline for the 2014 IAM Safety and Health Conference to be held August 17 to 22, 2014 at the William W. Winpisinger Center in Hollywood, MD is being extended by one week. All forms must be postmarked and received by Friday, June 20, 2014.

IAM Communicators Attend 2014 IAM Communications Conference

IAM Communicators from across the U.S. and Canada gathered in New Orleans this week for the 2014 IAM Communications Conference.

IAM Retiree, D-Day Vet Joe Reilly to Appear Friday on NBC News

IAM Retiree and activist Joe Reilly, a 101st Airborne paratrooper on D-Day, will be featured on NBC Nightly News’ D-Day 70th Anniversary coverage on Friday, June 6 at 8 p.m. EDT.

IAM Tours Chicago High School Manufacturing Institute

IAM General Vice President Diane Babineaux and IAM HPWO Grand Lodge Representative Jim Reid recently toured an innovative career technical education program that is giving high school students on Chicago’s West Side the training they need to get manufacturing jobs upon graduation.

IAM Mourns Legendary Author Maya Angelou

The IAM mourns the passing of trailblazing author and poet Maya Angelou, a literary voice who championed human and civil rights through several generations. She was 86.

Congress Gets Graded on Senior-Related Issues

Where do your representatives in Congress stand on issues related to seniors?

The Alliance for Retired Americans (ARA) recently released its annual report detailing the voting record of every U.S. Representative and Senator on issues important to current and future retirees.

NMB Orders Representation Election for Spirit Ramp Agents

The IAM has announced that the National Mediation Board (NMB) determined a representation dispute exists for the fleet service class and craft at Spirit Airlines.

IAM, NFFE-IAM Mourn Two Union Activists

IAM and NFFE-IAM members are mourning the loss of retired IAM Grand Lodge Representative Kenneth E. Richey and NFFE Veterans Affairs (VA) Council President Robert “Bob” Redding.

Seattle City Council Approves $15 Minimum Wage, Highest in Country

The Seattle City Council voted unanimously to raise the city's minimum wage to $15 an hour, making the Emerald City’s minimum wage the highest in the country.

Still Time to Enter IAM Photo Contest

IAM photographers still have a chance to showcase the work your members do in the IAM Calendar.

The deadline to enter the 2014 IAM Photo Contest has been extended to June 27, 2014.

IAM Members in Puerto Rico Ratify a Restructuring at PepsiCo Frito-Lay

IAM Local 2725 members at PepsiCo Frito-Lay in the island of Puerto Rico have ratified a new Sales Format Model by unanimous vote.

Two Illinois Machinists Injured in Casting Facility Blast

Two members of IAM Local 660 in East Alton, IL were injured in what is being described as an explosion in the casting facility at Olin Brass. One member was taken to the hospital, treated and released. Another was transported by helicopter to a St. Louis hospital and is in serious condition.

Pelletier Champions Working Women at Senate Hearing

IAM Local 700 member and Connecticut AFL-CIO Executive Secretary-Treasurer Lori Pelletier stressed the importance of collective bargaining to women’s economic security and called on Congress to raise the federal minimum wage and fully fund labor standard enforcement agencies at a recent Senate hearing.

Savoie Appointed Canadian Special Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed District 140 Organizer Robert Savoie to Special Representative for Canada. The appointment is effective June 1, 2014. 

Missouri School District Maintenance Workers Vote IAM

IAM District 9, Local 777 is proud to announce an organizing win at the Fort Zumwalt School District in O'Fallon, MO. Twenty-six Facility Maintenance Department workers recently voted to join the IAM.

IAM District 70 Saving Big with MAPP Discount Program

Local businesses in Wichita, KS are quickly signing up to become a part of IAM District 70’s Machinists Advantage Partnership Program (MAPP), which provides exclusive discounts and benefits for IAM members in south-central Kansas.

U.S. Media Highlights GOP Hypocrisy Over VA Hospital Treatment

Media pundits and news outlets lit into the Republican party last week after the GOP’s hypocritical pouncing on a scandal that broke at a Phoenix Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital.

Register Now for the 2014 LCLAA National Convention

The 2014 Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) National Convention will take place in Houston at the Hilton Americas from August 6 to 8, 2014. The convention brings together important Hispanic and labor leaders; local, state and national political figures; and a diverse coalition of non-profits, think-tanks and community-service organizations to create LCLAA’s agenda for the next two years.

Union Plus Provides New Programs for IAM Members

Union Privilege has announced the availability of new Union Plus benefits, programs and offers designed to meet the needs of IAM members and their families.

A Memorial Day Message from International President R. Thomas Buffenbarger

Memorial Day is a day to remember our fallen service men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy.

On behalf of all IAM members, thanks to our veterans and I wish everyone a safe, happy and healthy holiday weekend.

IAM Members Defeat GOP Attack on Service Contract Act Workers

Strong grassroots opposition from IAM members led to three anti-union, anti-working family amendments to the Defense budget bill being withdrawn this week in the U.S. House.

IAM Supports 2014 CBTU Convention

More than 500 union members from across the country, including over a dozen IAM members led by IAM General Vice President Diane Babineaux, are in attendance at the 43^rd International Annual Convention of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) in Atlanta.

Hertz Organizing Win Expands IAM Presence in U.S. Virgin Islands

U.S. Virgin Islands Local 340 recently notched its fifth organizing win in three years when seven maintenance and office administration workers at Hertz Rental Car in St. Croix voted unanimously to join the IAM.

WWW Center to Host Young Workers’ Class

A Young Workers Pilot Program will be held from August 3 to 8, 2014 at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Training Center in Hollywood, MD.

HPWO Partnership Paying Dividends for Kenyon College, IAM Local 2794

Two years ago, administrators at Kenyon College in Gambier, OH were considering outsourcing custodial, electric and plumbing work done by some 80 members of IAM Local 2794 and United Electrical Local 712. 

Local 1943 Community Services Committee Honors Military

The Community Services Committee of IAM Local 1943 in Middletown, OH marked its fifth year of collecting for the Yellow Ribbon Support Center (YRSC) just in time for Memorial Day.

Tell the House to Vote “No” on Amendments to Harm Service Contract Act Workers

House members are preparing to vote on three GOP amendments to the Defense budget bill that will eliminate key worker protections under the Service Contract Act (SCA).

Tell your Representative to vote “No” on the Rogers, Rigell and Fleming amendments to the Defense budget bill by clicking here.

UPS and UPS Freight Negotiations Open In Florida

Negotiations between the IAM and United Parcel Service (UPS) and UPS Freight formally opened today in Fort Lauderdale, FL. More than 30 local IAM representatives are prepared to hammer out a new agreement that will cover nearly 4,000 IAM-represented mechanics at more than 100 UPS and UPS Freight locations nationwide.

New Vote Ends Strike at Stennis Space Center

Members of IAM Local 2249 voted 41-7 on Tuesday, May 20 to ratify a new proposal from Lockheed Martin that will end the five-day strike at Stennis Space Center (SSC).

District 142 Flight Safety Conference Reaches New Levels of Training

The IAM’s pioneering Flight Safety Committee Program helps Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) keep industry maintenance standards high, deal with their ever-changing regulatory work environment and has a special program to train AMTs to participate in accident investigations. District Lodge 142’s Flight Safety Committee met at the Winpisinger Center and set a new level of training with instruction by former National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) officials, other airline professionals and practice on an actual damaged aircraft.

IAM and TCU-IAM Prepared to Strike Long Island Railroad

IAM and TCU-IAM members at the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) will strike on Sunday, July 20, 2014 if the commuter rail company continues to refuse contract negotiations, say union leaders.

May 20 Marks Primary Election Day in Six States

Voters in Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Idaho, Pennsylvania and Oregon are getting primary election season started today, May 20th.

Elizabeth Warren, Tom Perez Inspire Delegates at IAM Legislative Conference

The odds weren’t in favor of Elizabeth Warren becoming the first female Senator from Massachusetts.

Warren, the daughter of low-income parents who would become the driving force behind the creation of the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in 2010, was facing an uphill battle against incumbent Sen. Scott Brown (R-MA).

Machinists Ready to Negotiate National Pact with UPS

IAM negotiators are finalizing a package of contract proposals that will be presented to UPS representatives on May 20 in Fort Lauderdale, FL, where both sides will meet to hammer out a new agreement that will cover nearly 4,000 IAM-represented mechanics at more than 100 UPS and UPS Freight locations nationwide.

IAM Mourns West Virginia Miners Killed on the Job

The IAM mourns two Boone County, WV coal miners who died on the job on Monday, May 12, 2014.

Report Reveals Child Labor in U.S. Tobacco Fields

Few people realize that in 2014 child labor is still a major concern in the United States. Even fewer people realize a significant amount of that concern is centered around children working in tobacco farms in the South.

May 15 Marks Global 24-Hour Fast Food Strike

Today, fast food workers around the world engaged in a one-day strike for higher wages and the right to join a union. The events – which are a part of the growing “Fight for Fifteen” movement – took place on May 15 as a symbol of the $15 minimum wage U.S. workers deserve to be paid.

IAM Files for Representation Election at Spirit Airlines

The IAM announced it filed an application with the National Mediation Board (NMB) to conduct a representation election for fleet service employees at Spirit Airlines.

IAM Legislative Activists Descend on Capitol Hill

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill are bracing themselves for an onslaught of Machinists Union activists this week.

IAM Makes the Case for a Minimum Wage Hike

Congress failed once again to help America’s most vulnerable workers when it killed the Minimum Wage Fairness Act, a bill to raise the minimum wage to $10.10. In an op-ed published in Roll Call, IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger made a strong case for why Congress was wrong and why raising the minimum wage is good for America’s middle class and the nation’s economy.

Kessler Appointed to California Health and Safety Commission

The IAM congratulates 32-year IAM member and Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the San Mateo County Central Labor Council Shelley Kessler on her appointment to the California Commission on Health and Safety and Workers’ Compensation (CHSWC).

IAM Mourns Influential Labor Lawyer Cecil Branstetter

The IAM mourns the death of civil, human and workers’ rights advocate Cecil Branstetter. He passed away on May 7, 2014 at the age of 93.

Vote Count Underway for Grand Lodge Officer Election

The counting of IAM members’ votes for the election of IAM Grand Lodge Officers is underway and will proceed daily until all votes are tabulated. The count began May 7, 2014 at IAM Headquarters in Upper Marlboro, MD.

IAM, Labor Rally Against Job-Killing TPP Trade Deal

A springtime downpour in Washington, DC didn’t dampen the spirits of IAM members and other activists from rallying against the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), another free trade deal that promises job growth but instead exports thousands of U.S. jobs to low-wage countries.

Buffenbarger Defends U.S. Manufacturing at Senate Hearing

The besieged U.S. manufacturing industry needs a national strategy to stay competitive and create a foundation for future prosperity, said IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger at a recent Senate hearing.

IAM-US Airways Negotiations to Resume May 19

IAM District 141 and 142 representatives and IAM Transportation Department officials met with US Airways representatives with National Mediation Board (NMB) assistance in Washington, D.C.

Bath Iron Works Announces 600 New Jobs, Training Center

Nearly 600 new jobs are expected at Bath Iron Works (BIW) in Bath, ME by year’s end, say shipyard officials in a recent Kennebec Journal article. BIW will also be launching an on-site training facility to help tailor those workers’ skills.

Jeff Grim Chosen to Lead IAM Worksite Benefits Program

The IAM’s supplemental insurance provider, Employee Benefit Systems (EBS), has tapped Jeffrey “Jeff” Grim to lead EBS’s nationally successful Machinists Custom Choices Worksite Benefits Program.

Alabama Local 2003 Rocks the Vote at Fort Rucker

Nearly 3,000 Machinists of Local 2003 in Daleville, AL are back at work at Fort Rucker today after voting by a 92 percent margin to ratify a new contract offer from L3 Army Fleet Support (AFS). The vote ended a week-long strike that idled flight training at one of the world's largest helicopter bases.

126 Years Later: How a Treasured Piece of IAM History Ended Up on ‘The Walking Dead’

The first members of the Machinists Union were facing dangerous work, long hours, and unfair pay when they gathered in a dusty Atlanta locomotive pit on the night of May 5, 1888. They met in secret, since management would have responded harshly if they knew their employees were forming a union.

IAM President Salutes Tennessee Machinists

IAM President Tom Buffenbarger and members of the Executive Council traveled to the Tennessee State Council of Machinists meeting to deliver personal thanks to IAM activists in the Volunteer State who endure and prevail in what may be the most extreme anti-union political environment in the U.S.

IAM Mourns Congressman Jim Oberstar

Former U.S. Representative and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Jim Oberstar (D-MN) died in his sleep on Friday, May 2, 2014. He was 79 years old.

Help Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger on May 10

The IAM is joining the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) to help collect donated food in more than 10,000 communities for the annual Letter Carrier Food Drive. The 22nd annual food drive is this Saturday, May 10.

Union Plus Provides New Programs for IAM Members

Union Privilege has announced the availability of new Union Plus benefits, programs and offers designed to meet the needs of IAM members and their families.

IAM Members Complete Voting for Grand Lodge Officers, Final Count to Begin May 7

IAM members in Local Lodges in the United States and Canada have concluded voting for Grand Lodge Officers at their Lodge meetings in April. Counting of all ballots is set to begin on May 7, 2014 at IAM Headquarters in Upper Marlboro, MD. Offices up for election include International President, General Secretary-Treasurer and in the United States, eight General Vice Presidents.

Machinists President Defends Retirees Pension Benefits

The IAM is calling on members of Congress to reject any legislation that allows pension fund administrators to reduce or eliminate the pension benefits of retired workers.

National Labor College Honors 2014 Graduating Class

Labor’s college may be closing up shop, but not because IAM members didn’t participate. In 2014, and almost every year since the IAM’s William W. Winpisinger Education Center teamed up with the AFL-CIO’s National Labor College (NLC) in Silver Spring, MD, the IAM has had one of the highest graduation rates of any participating union.

Reopening Air Force Rocket Contract Would Threaten IAM Jobs

The IAM recently sent a letter to U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL), chairman of the House Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee, urging Congress to reject any attempt to reopen the Air Force’s block buy contract to launch GPS satellites into space.

NFFE-IAM Teams Up with Congressman to Protect PA Army Depot

Members of NFFE-IAM Local 1429 in Chambersburg, PA recently met with Rep. Bill Shuster (R-PA) to discuss strategy for protecting Letterkenny Army Depot from closure in the event of another round of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC).

United Blames Weather, Not Management Failures, for Poor First Quarter

United Airlines has reported a net loss of $609 million, or $1.66 per share, for the first quarter of 2014. It marks a three-month low for the carrier.

Federal Employees’ Collective Bargaining Class Deadline Extended to May 9

Friday, May 9, 2014 is the new deadline to complete and return enrollment forms for the Federal Employees’ Collective Bargaining class from June 22 to 27 at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

Alabama Local 2003 on Strike for Respect

Nearly 3,000 members of IAM Local 2003 in Daleville, AL are on strike against Army Fleet Support (AFS) at Fort Rucker after voting to reject a “last, best and final” offer from parent company L3 Communications.

CT Gov. Malloy Addresses New England State Council Machinists

The only way to reverse the downward trend of the American middle class is through an economic boost in U.S. manufacturing, job creation and skills training, said Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy to IAM leaders and members at the New England State Council of Machinists Annual Conference in Groton, CT.

AIM Aerospace Machinists Ratify First Union Contract

IAM District 751 members at AIM Aerospace in Sumner, WA have won 5.6 percent average wage increases plus improved benefits with their first union contract.

Executive PayWatch: Your CEO Makes 331 Times More Than You

Wal-Mart Chief Executive Michael Duke, ranked No. 69 on the list of 100 Highest Paid CEOs, took home over $20.5 million in 2013. Don’t tell that to the corporate giant’s million-plus employees, half of whom earned less than $25,000.

IAM Wins Agreement to Halt Outsourcing at Auto Truck Transport

IAM members at Auto Truck Transport (ATT) won a three-year battle to halt improper outsourcing of their work by the company. The settlement, which includes more than $1.3 million in damages, covers more than 600 members of Locals 641 in Cleveland, NC, and Mount Holly, NC; Local 166 in Laredo, TX; and District W24 in Portland, OR.

Labor to Rally on the Hill Against TPP Trade Agreement

The IAM will join union activists and the AFL-CIO in a rally on Capitol Hill to voice our members’ opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement.

The rally is scheduled for May 7, 2014 at 1:30 pm in the Upper Senate Park behind the Capitol building.

IAM Mourns District 10 BR Don Griffin

The IAM mourns the passing of District 10 Business Representative Don Griffin.

Mike Rose Appointed Woodworkers Chief of Staff

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has announced the appointment of Grand Lodge Representative Mike Rose to serve as Chief of Staff of the IAM Woodworkers Department.

Enroll Now for Federal Employees' Basic Class

The 2014 Federal Employees’ Basic Program will be held at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center, in Hollywood, MD, during the week of August 10-15, 2014.

Enter to Win the 2014 IAM Photo Contest

There’s still time to enter the 2014 IAM Photo Contest. The entry deadline is May 9, 2014.

Illinois Machinists on Strike at Superior Carriers

Fighting high out-of-pocket health insurance costs and stagnant wages at Superior Carriers in Markham, IL, 13 members of IAM Local 701 said “enough is enough” and voted unanimously to strike on April 8, 2014.

Hawaii Sen. Schatz Joins IAM Fight to Block Outsourcing at United

The IAM and Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI) called on United Airlines to rethink its outsourcing plans in Kona, Maui and Lihue, HI.

New York Times Goes Rogue on Free Trade Pacts

In a reversal of a long-held bias in favor of free trade agreements, the New York Times Editorial Board published a stinging critique of past trade pacts and warned the Obama administration against making similar mistakes in a pair of massive trade deals currently under consideration.

IAM Mourns District 4 DBR Joe Flanders

The IAM mourns the death of District 4 Directing Business Representative Joe Flanders.

Flanders died unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 16, 2014 at his home in Mechanic Falls, ME. He was 58 years old.

Register Now for Federal Employees’ Collective Bargaining Class

Friday, April 25, 2014 is the deadline to complete and return enrollment forms for the Federal Employees’ Collective Bargaining class from June 22 to 27 at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

Hotel Deadline for the 2014 Communications Conference Fast Approaching

The deadline to book your hotel room at the special room rate for the 2014 IAM Communications Conference is Thursday, April 24, 2014. The rate entitles conference-goers to a single or double room for $179 per night at the Loews New Orleans Hotel in New Orleans.

D-Day Veteran Joe Reilly Still on Labor’s Frontline

Joe Reilly turns 93 in just a few weeks, but the World War II veteran and 58-year IAM member has no plans to slow down. In his 28th year of retirement, Reilly is as active in his union and politics as anyone.

House Dems Open Investigation into UAW-VW Vote

Did Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and U.S. Sen. Bob Corker (R-TN) illegally interfere with the United Auto Workers’ (UAW) attempt to organize workers at the Volkswagen (VW) plant in Chattanooga, TN? Democrats in the U.S. House want to know.

What Happened to This Brazilian Aerospace Worker Will Leave You Speechless

In São José dos Campos, about an hour’s drive from the Brazilian metropolis of São Paulo, working at Embraer is like wearing a badge of honor.

Click here to watch the Machinists News Network video, “Brazilian Worker Strait-Jacketed for Being a Woman.”

Guide Dogs of America Breaks Ground on New Visitor and Education Center

Guide Dogs of America (GDA) has broken ground on a new 15,900-square-foot education and outreach center in Southern California.

The expansion of GDA’s 7.5-acre campus was made possible by a $3.3 million donation from Phil and Macki Singer, supporters of GDA since 1994.

IAM Scholarship Judges Poised to Announce 2014 Winners

Judges for the 2014 IAM Scholarship Competition recently gathered at Machinists Union Headquarters in Upper Marlboro, MD to review nearly 350 candidates for this year’s awards. Winners will be contacted soon and results will be announced in July.

IAM Members Awarded Union Plus Grants, Rebates

More than 30 IAM members are the latest recipients of Union Privilege/Union Plus grants and rebates.

The awards stem from programs like the Union Plus/Machinists Credit Card, the Union Plus Mortgage Program and the AT&T SmartPhone Discount, among others.

Tell the House to Extend Unemployment Insurance Benefits

House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) refuses to take up a Senate bill aimed at extending federal unemployment insurance benefits for the jobless.

Click here to tell your House members to pass the emergency unemployment benefits extension today.

Act Now to Block Job-Killing TPP Trade Deal

Twenty years after the ratification of NAFTA, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and other worker advocates are speaking out against the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), another free-trade deal that promises job growth but instead exports thousands of U.S. jobs to low-wage countries.

Click here to tell Congress it's time they support trade rules that work for America's working families.

Click here to watch “Tough Trade Talk.”

NY Aviation High School Visits WWW, IAM Headquarters

For the 12th consecutive year, students from New York City’s Aviation High School visited the IAM’s William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD for a unique look inside the U.S. transportation industry.

Military Base Victim Advocates Get Justice Through IAM

After a long and tenacious struggle, 13 Victim Advocates who work under a Service Contract at Joint Base Lewis McChord have gained a bit of justice. The Wage and Hour Division of the Department of Labor (DOL) has just finished its investigation and reached a settlement with their previous employer, Strategic Resources, Inc. (SRI), for a back pay settlement that could be well into the millions.

Register Now for 2014 Human Rights and Women’s Programs

The dates for the 2014 Human Rights and Women’s programs at the William W. Winpisinger Center in Hollywood, MD have been changed. The IAM will now conduct simultaneous Human Rights and Women’s programs on October 12-17, 2014.

WWW Center Prepares IAM Members at Northrop for Upcoming Negotiations

Negotiating Committee members at IAM District 725, Local 575 in Azusa, CA, recently prepared for upcoming negotiations with defense contractor Northrop Grumman by developing a multi-faceted strategic bargaining plan at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

Ryan Budget Fleeces Federal Workforce

The government spending plan proposed by Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) would gouge even more money out of the pockets of beleaguered middle-class federal workers who have already been hit with pay and pension cuts, furloughs and a government shutdown.

Machinists Union Mobilizes Congressional Support to Thwart United Airlines’ Job Cuts

IAM representatives met with Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-OH) to discuss the effects of United’s plan to downsize its operations at Cleveland’s Hopkins Airport and the possible outsourcing of Fleet and Passenger Service work to low-paid sub-contractors in other cities.

IAM Local 701 Lends Expertise to Aspiring Auto Techs

Members at IAM Local 701 know a thing or two about fixing things. These Chicago-area Machinists make a living working on cars, trucks, RVs, forklifts and much more.

IAM Members Vote to End Strike at Trax

More than 300 IAM Local 2515 members have voted to end their strike at Trax International in White Sands Missile Range, NM.

Register Now for the 2014 Communications Conference

The deadline to book your hotel room at the special room rate for the 2014 IAM Communications Conference is fast approaching. The cutoff date for a single or double room at the Loews New Orleans Hotel in New Orleans for $179 per night is April 24, 2014.

IAM Members Ratify Contract at Alaska Airlines

IAM members at Alaska Airlines have overwhelmingly ratified a new contract at the carrier covering approximately 3,000 clerical, office and passenger service employees at Alaska Airlines.

Equal Pay Day: Women Still Earn Way Less than Men

April 8 is the annual observance of Equal Pay Day, a date that marks how much extra a woman has to work in 2014 before earning what a man did in 2013.

House Votes to Slash One Million Workers’ Health Coverage

A recent House GOP vote to redefine full-time work under the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) employer mandate shows its complete disregard for U.S. workers, including those who don’t work a traditional 40-hour work week.

Contract Talks Underway for 3,500 at Fort Rucker

Negotiations are moving forward on a new contract that will cover 3,500 members of IAM Local 2003 employed by Army Fleet Support (AFS) at Fort Rucker in Daleville, AL.

New Documents Shed More Light on Volkswagen UAW Vote

The plot continues to thicken in the aftermath of the controversial February 14 vote that narrowly rejected United Auto Worker (UAW) representation at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga, TN plant.

Machinists Urge House Support of Increased F-35 Production

The IAM urges the U.S. House to restore the previously planned production rate for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

IAM, Horizon Air Reach First Agreement

The IAM announced stock and stores employees at Horizon Air reached a first tentative contract with the carrier.

IAM Wins Organizing Drive for 450 in South Texas

The IAM Southern Territory notched an important organizing victory for 450 military helicopter mechanics, technicians and maintenance personnel employed by L3 at the Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) in Corpus Christi, TX.

For more information about the IAM organizing campaign at L3, visit www.goiamtexas.com.

400 IAM Members Ratify Contract at Crown Cork & Seal

More than 400 IAM members across the U.S. have ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with food and beverage packaging company Crown Cork & Seal.

Simulation Techs at NAS Pensacola Vote IAM

Computer Simulation and Training Technicians working for TJ Inc. and Cubic Corp. at the Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) Pensacola, located at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, recently overwhelmingly voted “Yes” for IAM representation.

Last Chance to Enroll for Local Lodge History Project

IAM members now have until Friday, April 11 to register for the Local Lodge History Project class scheduled for June 8 to 13 at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

Register Now for the 2014 Communications Conference

The 2014 IAM Communications Conference is scheduled for Sunday, June 1 through Wednesday, June 4, 2014, at the Loews New Orleans Hotel, 300 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70130.

Machinists Union Taking on Autism in April

Most everyone knows a family affected by autism, or is dealing with the disorder in their own household. Machinists Union families are no different.

During the month of April, which is recognized as Autism Awareness Month, IAM Headquarters in Upper Marlboro, MD, will be helping educate people about the disorder and hold numerous fundraising events.

IAM Shipbuilders to Build Fifth DDG-51 Destroyer at Bath Iron

IAM members at Bath Iron Works (BIW) in IAM District 4, Local S6 in Bath, ME, will be building an additional Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, one of the U.S. Navy’s most powerful ships ever put to sea.

The Navy awarded BIW a $642.5 million contract, bringing the total number of DDG-51 ships to be constructed by IAM members at BIW under a multi-year procurement to five. The total value of the contract is valued at approximately $3.4 billion.

NFFE-IAM Pushing Bill to Give Federal Workers an Adequate Raise

The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) is backing a bill that would provide a 3.3 percent pay adjustment for federal workers in 2015 instead of the one percent raise proposed in the President’s budget.

Tell Congress that the FAIR Act is needed to adequately compensate federal employees. Ask to speak to your representative by calling the Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121.

Machinists Union Exchanges Ideas with Brazilian Unionists

The IAM recently strengthened its international ties by hosting a group of Brazilian unionists who were in the U.S. to learn more about American labor and manufacturing.

Workers’ Memorial Day Set for April 28

The IAM will remember members who have died on the job during a ceremony at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2014 at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD. The unions of the AFL-CIO observe Workers’ Memorial Day to commemorate the thousands of workers killed, injured or sickened on the job each year.

WWW Hosts First Spanish Leadership I Program of 2014

The first Spanish Leadership Program of 2014 brought Spanish-speaking members from all over the U.S. and Puerto Rico to the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

El Centro Winpisinger organizó el primer Programa de Liderazgo I en Español del 2014

El primer Programa de Liderazgo en español del 2014 trajo a miembros de habla hispana de todas partes de EE.UU. y Puerto Rico a el Centro de Educación y Tecnología William W. Winpisinger en Hollywood, MD.

MNPL Planning Committee Gears Up for Midterm Election Battles

The combination of the Supreme Court’s Citizens v. United decision and the unrelenting Tea Party stranglehold on the GOP will combine to make the 2014 midterm elections a critical test for labor unions, progressives and anyone who values survival of the American Dream.

IAM Members Protest Unfair Treatment by US Airways

IAM-represented ground workers at US Airways conducted informational pickets across the country to protest the carrier’s insistence that they accept second-class status and agree to lower wage rates than other employees at the “new” American Airlines who perform the exact same work.

Can You Hear Me Now? In-Flight Cell Phone Calls a Bad Idea

Allowing passengers to make in-flight cell phone calls would create needless and potentially deadly safety issues, says Transportation Trades Department President Ed Wytkind.

NLRB: Northwestern University Football Players Can Unionize

The Northwestern University football team won without having to set foot on the gridiron.

After the National Labor Relations Board in Chicago ruled that the players meet the definition of an employee, the Wildcat football team now has the right to unionize.

Cheap Prison Labor Thwarts IAM Members at NAS Pensacola, U.S. Navy to Investigate

U.S. Naval Secretary Ray Mabus has agreed to investigate the use of prison inmates to perform work belonging to IAM members at the Pensacola Naval Air Station (NAS) in Pensacola, FL.

Local 681 Preps for Negotiations at WWW Center

IAM members at Reynolds Packaging Group in Louisville, KY prepared for upcoming contract negotiations by attending classes at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center. Local 681 represents Maintenance Employees at the facility, which manufactures Reynolds Wrap aluminum foil.

Machinists Union Steps Up to Support Native Rights

The labor movement has a strong record of advocating for minority groups and women with allied organizations like the Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW), the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA), the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU), the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) and the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA). Western Territory Grand Lodge Representative Kevin Cummings has been working hard to add the cause of North America’s First Inhabitants to the list.

Register Now for the 2014 Communications Conference

The 2014 IAM Communications Conference is scheduled for Sunday, June 1 through Wednesday, June 4, 2014, at the Loews New Orleans Hotel, 300 Poydras Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70130.

IAM Presses for Contract at US Airways

IAM representatives at US Airways are continuing to press the National Mediation Board for a release from mediated contract talks despite the company’s stalling tactics. American Airlines CEO Doug Parker tried to paint a rosy picture of good labor relations at the “new” American Airlines during a JP Morgan investor conference call, but the company’s actions were much different.

IAM Members Complete Employee Assistance Program I Training

Twenty-four IAM members with diverse employment backgrounds in the U.S. and Canada received certificates for completing Employee Assistance Program I (EAP-I) training at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Center in Hollywood, MD.

Boehner Denies Benefits to 3.6 Million Unemployed Americans

Speaker of the House John Boehner has announced plans to kill the bipartisan unemployment benefits extension that the Senate has agreed to.

Take action today. Click here to tell Congress to extend federal unemployment benefits.

IAM Calendars Go On Sale

The 2014 IAM Calendar is on sale at a reduced price. The popular calendar features the winners of the IAM Photo Contest. The cost is $2.50 per calendar. Two dollars from each calendar sold are donated to Guide Dogs of America.

Guide Dogs of America to Break Ground on Phil and Macki Singer Visitor Education Center

Guide Dogs of America (GDA) will break ground April 13, 2014 on a new 15,900-square-foot education and outreach center that will allow the school to expand its community outreach and build upon its services for blind and visually impaired men and women in Los Angeles and across the U.S. and Canada.

March ‘IAM Journal’ Now Available

The March 2014 IAM Journal is now available to download via the new IAM Mobile 3.0 app.

Women in Aviation Conference Inspires IAM Members

The 25th Annual Women in Aviation Conference in Orlando, FL, recently brought together female IAM members from around the country to connect with other women in the aerospace industry.

Click here to watch the new Machinists News Network video, “Women in Aviation Conference Inspires Young Girls.”

IAM Opposes Privatization of Tennessee Valley Authority

The IAM renews its call for Washington lawmakers to reject all efforts to privatize the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federally owned power agency that employs more than 1,000 IAM members and has provided low-cost, reliable energy to area residents for more than 80 years.

Take action to protect the TVA, good American jobs and clean, reliable energy for millions. Click here to tell Congress to vote “No” on privatizing the Tennessee Valley Authority.

Grand Lodge Officers Election Notice

Notice of Election for IAM International President, General Secretary-Treasurer, and 8 General Vice Presidents

In accordance with the provisions of Article III of the IAM Constitution, the IAM will conduct elections for the offices of International President, General Secretary-Treasurer and 8 General Vice Presidents for terms ending on June 30, 2017. In Canada, elections will be conducted for the offices of International President and General Secretary-Treasurer only.

IAM Wins Pension Increase for 17,000 at United Airlines


The IAM this week concluded discussions with the Board of Trustees of the IAM National Pension Fund (IAMNPF) that will increase pension benefits by 35 to 45 percent for approximately 17,000 IAM members at United Airlines.



Transportation Officials Honor 'Women Who Move the Nation'

"Women Move the Nation" was the theme of the third annual awards ceremony hosted by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) in Washington, DC.

Korean Trade Deal Promised Jobs, Delivered Job Losses

Two years ago, against the IAM’s strong opposition, the United States signed a trade agreement with South Korea (KORUS). Like other trade pacts, advocates of the deal said it would create thousands of U.S. jobs as a result of increased exports to South Korea.

Obama Signs Order to Expand Overtime Pay

Working Americans may soon see some reprieve from outdated regulations that have long denied overtime pay for millions.

Enroll Now for Federal Employees’ Collective Bargaining Class

The IAM will conduct a Federal Employees’ Collective Bargaining class from June 22 to 27, 2014 at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD.

Machinists Ink New Deal with Calgary Stampede

Members of IAM Local Lodge 99 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, have ratified a new one-year collective agreement with the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede Limited, an organization that hosts community events and operates a casino and racetrack. It also hosts the “Calgary Stampede,” an annual festival that includes live music, a rodeo and a parade.

CPAC Conservatives Tilt Hard Right

It might be more accurately called a circus, but the most prestigious conservative political convention of the year took place last week, just a short drive from IAM Headquarters.

The Conservative Political Action Conference, or CPAC, is the annual pilgrimage of conservative activists to meet, greet and size up Republican politicians. Potential GOP presidential candidates are especially eager to gain favor of the right-wing crowd – a great speech at CPAC can go a long way toward 2016.

IAM’s Maine Lobstering Union Expands, Outlines Key Concerns

The IAM Maine Lobstering Union, a union that began with a few members on the island of Vinalhaven, has now grown to include members all along Maine's nearly 3,500-mile coastline. 

Click here to watch “Maine’s Lobstering Union Expands” on the Machinists News Network.

CBC Calls on Kellogg to End Memphis Lockout

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) is urging the Kellogg Co. to “immediately end” its nearly five-month lockout of more than 220 workers at its Memphis, TN, plant.

Click here to read the letter to Kellogg CEO John Bryant.

Labor Wins Greater Voice on Trade Advisory Committees

The IAM’s ongoing campaign to win a greater voice for unions and union members impacted by international trade accords took a step forward last month when the United States Trade Representative announced plans to increase the number of labor representatives to trade advisory committees.

IAM Retirees Join DNC in Preparation for 2014 Midterm Elections

Nearly a hundred seniors and retirees, including retired IAM sisters and brothers, attended a recent Democratic National Committee (DNC) Seniors’ Coordinating Council meeting in Washington, DC, in preparation for the 2014 midterm elections.

Official Says Missouri Was Poised to Win 777X

According to a senior economic development official in St. Louis, the Boeing Company was poised to announce that St. Louis would build the 777X if Machinists in the Pacific Northwest voted to reject a multi-year contract extension on January 3, 2014.

Why Now is the Time to Organize the South

Over 50 years after the civil rights movement caught fire, and 125 years since the IAM was born in an Atlanta locomotive pit, social and economic unrest are being revived in the American South.

Local 2783 Preps for Contract Talks at WWW

IAM Local 2783 Bargaining Committee members at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in St. Mary’s, GA, are ready for upcoming contract talks after attending a Negotiating Preparation for Bargaining Committees class at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center.

Washington State Leads Nation, Shines in Minimum Wage Fight

Opponents of measures to increase federal and state minimum wages have long said higher wages will cost the country jobs and economic growth. Well, a recent Bloomberg report debunks that theory.

Help Letter Carriers Stamp out Hunger

The IAM is joining the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) to help collect donated food in more than 10,000 communities for its annual Letter Carrier Food Drive.

This year’s drive will take place on Saturday, May 10.

Good News for IAM Aerospace Members

A pair of developments in the volatile aerospace sector are being hailed for the multi-billion economic effects they bring to members and communities in at least six states.

TCU-IAM, Long Island Rail Road Coalition Hold Solidarity Briefing

TCU-IAM and its Long Island Rail Road coalition partners – SMART and NCFO-SEIU – held an historic solidarity briefing with TWU Local 100 at the latter's New York City headquarters on Friday, February 21.

Local 175 Members ‘Export Freedom’ in Harley-Davidson Commercial

IAM Local 175 members who work at the Harley-Davidson plant in York, PA, were recently featured in a commercial created by the Harley-Davidson Motor Company for the Super Bowl.

SC Gov. Haley Hates Unions More Than She Likes Jobs

At a time when 21.6 million Americans remain unemployed or underemployed, it’s hard to believe anyone would say no to good-paying, secure jobs. But sometimes, fact is stranger than fiction.

Meet South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.

Proposed Michigan Law Could Cost Striking Workers Up to $1K Per Day

Freedom of assembly is under attack in Michigan.

The state House of Representatives recently took up HB 4643, legislation that would levy massive fines against striking workers and labor organizations found to be leading or organizing a strike.

Tell Qatar Airways Women Deserve Respect

Being a woman at Qatar Airways isn’t easy.

You can get fired for being pregnant. You’ll need your boss’s permission to get married. Want to say something about it? The confidentiality clause in your contract could get you tried in Qatari Court.

Report of Nominations for Grand Lodge Officers

IAM members in more than 800 local lodges in the United States and Canada have concluded nominations and runoff votes where necessary to determine lodge endorsements for the IAM Executive Council positions of International President, General Secretary-Treasurer and, for U.S. locals, eight General Vice Presidents.

IAM District 9 Truck Drivers Win Huge Back-Pay Settlement

IAM District 9, Local 777 drivers at Unimark Truck Transport in Bridgeton, MO, have won a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) suit against the company that could net over $1 million in back pay spread across up to 300 members.

Black History Month: Earl Robinson Shares Inspirational Story

Former Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) Assistant Director Earl Robinson, the first African American to serve in that position, recently spoke about his trailblazing career at IAM Headquarters as part of the IAM’s ongoing tribute to Black History Month.

NFFE-IAM Calls on Congress to Up Federal Worker Pay

Following reports that the President will propose a one percent pay increase for federal employees in his upcoming budget, William R. Dougan, National President of the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM), says Congress should act to fairly compensate federal workers who deserve more after numerous pay freezes, political attacks and a government shutdown.

NMB Meeting Scheduled for US Airways Negotiations

The National Mediation Board (NMB) has scheduled meetings between the principal representatives in the US Airways - IAM negotiations. The meetings are set for March 18 and 19, 2014 at the NMB offices in Washington, DC.

UAW Says Outside Interference Swayed Volkswagen Union Vote

Following a narrow defeat last week at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga, TN, plant, the United Auto Workers (UAW) has filed an appeal with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) citing outside interference by politicians and special interest groups.

IAM Members Seek Employee Assistance Professional Certification

Sixteen IAM members sat for a four-hour exam at the William W. Winpisinger Center in Southern Maryland in an effort to become certified employee assistance professionals.

Preserving Jobs is First Priority for Missouri Machinists

By a 1,269 to 449 vote, members of District 837 in St. Louis ratified a contract extension with the Boeing Company that provides members with wage increases and an $8,000 signing bonus while improving the company’s ability to attract much-needed new work. District 837 represents nearly 2,400 workers who build the F/A-18 and F-15 fighter planes as well as the EA-18G electronic attack aircraft.

IAM Secures Retro Pay, Interest for United Workers

IAM District 141 announced it reached an agreement with United Airlines to pay 30,000 IAM-represented fleet service, passenger service and stockroom employees the retroactive wages they are owed, plus interest.

IAM Forest Products Industry Workers Meet to Plan Future

IAM workers and representatives from all sectors of the forest products industry, from harvesting and milling lumber to making paper and other wood fiber products, spent two days in Fort Worth, TX, sharing bargaining and organizing experiences and pooling their expertise. Their task was to identify the most important issues they face and develop ways to make future gains in a sector of the North American economy that employs more workers than the U.S. auto industry.

Samick Recognized for National Women’s History Month

The late Anna Samick, the first female Business Representative in the IAM to teach at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center, has been named a 2014 National Women’s History Month Nominee.

IAM Partners with New Detroit Metals Manufacturing Institute

The IAM is proud to announce its participation as a labor partner in the White House’s newly announced $148 million Defense Department advanced manufacturing institute in Detroit.

Machinists Union Prepares for Fight at US Airways

The IAM Transportation Department, District 141 and District 142 negotiators are discussing strategy in preparation for a probable proffer of arbitration at US Airways.

Illinois Machinist Returns to Work with $70K Back Pay

An IAM District 9 and Local 660 member who was unfairly terminated from his job in June 2012, is back at work today – thanks to his union contract, he says.

Buford was awarded all lost wages, including any overtime the department had been scheduled to work. In addition to the lost wages, the company was also responsible for reimbursing Buford’s out-of-pocket costs to cover medical and dental insurance, the company’s 401(k) match, as well as the company’s contribution to the defined benefit Pension Plan, vacation and safety bonus.

IAM Previews Bankruptcy Education Program for AFL-CIO

Union leaders at this week’s AFL-CIO Executive Council meeting in Houston, TX, got a preview of a unique educational program being developed by the IAM to teach unions and union representatives how to better protect union members at companies facing corporate bankruptcy.

NFFE-IAM Takes to Capitol Hill in Support of Federal Workers

A new Machinists News Network video highlights a rally in support of federal workers who have been hit hard by the Republican-controlled Congress and its anti-labor agenda.

Canadian Machinists Urge Rejection of Union-Busting Bill

The IAM in Canada says Bill C-525 is a move in the wrong direction and is urging the House of Commons to reject it.

In a written submission issued earlier this week to the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development, the IAM says the legislation, put forward as a private members’ bill, is being pushed through parliament without the level of scrutiny that government bills normally receive.

Spanish Leadership Working Group Revamps Spanish Classes for 2014

A diverse mix of Spanish-speaking IAM members, known as the Spanish Leadership Working Group (SLWG), gathered at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Educational Center in Hollywood, MD to undertake an extensive overhaul of the Spanish Leadership classes offered at the Center.

Facilitadores de los Programas de Liderazgo en Español Renuevan las Clases para 2014

Una mezcla diversa de miembros de habla hispana de la IAM , conocidos como el grupo de facilitadores de Liderazgo en Español se reunieron en el Centro William W. Winpisinger (WWW ) en Hollywood, MD con el fin de hacer una revisión extensiva de las clases de liderazgo en español ofrecidas en el Centro.

Boeing Unveils Location for 777X Composite Wing Facility

The IAM welcomes news that the composite wings for Boeing’s new 777X will be built by IAM members in a new 1.5 million square foot complex in Everett, WA.

IAM Hosts Brazilian Unionists

A group of ten Brazilian trade unionists are visiting the U.S. as part of an exchange program being put on by the IAM and the AFL-CIO’s Solidarity Center.

UAW Mulls Volkswagen Vote Challenge

United Auto Workers (UAW) President Bob King says the union will consider challenging the results of a representation election at a Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga, TN, citing influences from several GOP state lawmakers and their third-party anti-union conglomerates.

Register Now for the 2014 IAM Communications Conference

The 2014 IAM Communications Conference will be held June 1-4, 2014 at the Loews Hotel in New Orleans.

Please refer to the official call for details and enrollment forms or call the IAM Communications Department at 301-967-4520 for more information.

Seven Days Left to Apply for 2014 IAM Scholarship Competition

The deadline to apply for a 2014 IAM Scholarship Award is fast approaching. Applications must be postmarked no later than February 25, 2014 to be considered.

IAM Negotiations Underway for 5,600 at Lockheed Martin

The Machinists came out in full force to Palm Springs, CA for the opening day of the economic phase of negotiations with Lockheed Martin. Key issues in the talks include health care costs, pensions, job security and workplace rules that could affect more than 5,600 IAM members at Lockheed facilities in Palmdale, Sunnyvale, Vandenberg AFB, Santa Cruz, CA, Marietta, GA, Meridian, MS, Clarksburg, WV and Cape Canaveral, FL. 

Six Apprentices Graduate from Joint IAM/Boeing Program

For nearly 80 years, the IAM and Boeing have worked together on an apprenticeship program in the Puget Sound area of Washington State. Six apprentices completed on-the-job training and were recognized with a graduation banquet at the Museum of Flight in Seattle on February 7^th.

Sherrod Brown Introduces ‘Wear American Act'

Soon, government-issued uniforms for federal workers may no longer don clothing tags imprinted with the words “Made in China.”

Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) has introduced a bill that would require the federal government to only buy apparel that is 100 percent made in America.

Shop Union This Valentine's Day

In addition to some union-made sweets and treats, if you're looking for flowers this Valentine’s Day, Union Plus is offering a 25 percent discount through Teleflora for union members and their families.

Machinists Union Locals Conduct Endorsement Elections

On February 8, 2014, the IAM conducted runoff elections to resolve contested nominations for IAM Executive Council positions of International President, General Secretary-Treasurer and, for U.S. locals, eight General Vice Presidents.

US Airways Negotiations at Impasse

After months of face-to-face negotiations with US Airways and after several meetings called by the Chairperson of the National Mediation Board, discussions have ended with no agreements in sight.

Experts Agree: Paid Sick Leave Works for Employees, Businesses

Paid sick leave is a good deal for employers, too.

A diverse range of stakeholders at a recent Aspen Institute panel agreed that an employee with paid time off when they’re ill leads to increased productivity, better health and a more stable family life.

Cambodian Workers Tortured, Killed After Asking for Raise

A new Machinists News Network video sheds light on a horrific workers’ rights violation in Cambodia, a Southeast Asian country where government forces allegedly tortured and murdered striking garment workers asking for a raise.

OXFAM Honors IAM for Philippines Relief Contribution

Oxfam Canada honored Canadian Machinists in recognition of the generous contribution made towards Oxfam’s relief efforts in areas of the Philippines devastated by Typhoon Haiyan on November 8, 2013.

Senate Democratic Leader Reid Opposes ‘Fast Track’

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) dealt supporters of the seriously flawed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) free trade agreement a major blow when he publically denounced plans to hurriedly push the trade deal through Congress.

Republican Senators Again Shoot Down Unemployment Insurance Extension

Democratic members of the U.S. Senate tried again today to move forward a bill that would extend unemployment insurance for 1.7 million job-seeking Americans.

IAM Applauds Amtrak’s New Cities Sprinter Service

General Vice President Sito Pantoja and IAM/TCU-represented Amtrak workers joined U.S Vice President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx at Philadelphia’s 30^th Street Station and lauded the inauguration of Amtrak’s new Cities Sprinter electric locomotive service due to begin tomorrow.

US Airways Fleet Workers Demand Contract

US Airways fleet service workers gathered in Boston in a show of solidarity to demand their company do the right thing and offer a fair contract now.

Support New Rules to Help Make Union Elections Fair

The unfair, tedious and costly process for workers to exercise their right to organize could be getting some reprieve if recently-proposed labor regulations take effect.

NAFTA Marks 20 Years of Hurting Working People

A new Machinists News Network video highlights the job loss and wage reduction that has come from the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) since it was ratified 20 years ago.

Machinists Union Reaches Tentative Contract With Alaska Airlines

IAM Wins Arbitration with Auto Truck Transport

Yellen Takes Helm as Fed Chair

‘Full Employment Caucus’ Looks to Tackle Unemployment

U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson says everyone on her street had a job when she was a little girl growing up in 1950s Miami.

Two House Bills Threaten 6.5 Million Workers’ Health Care Coverage

The IAM joins labor in strongly opposing two bills that seek to increase the threshold at which employers are required to either offer health care coverage or pay a penalty under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Obama Lauds Wisconsin Local 1377 Worker Training at GE Energy

GE Energy and IAM District 10, Local 1377, hosted President Barack Obama at the GE facility in Waukesha, WI, Thursday.

Labor Unions Crowd Pennsylvania Capitol Over Right to Work Bill

Nearly 600 IAM public-sector members, other union members, supporters and Democratic lawmakers in Pennsylvania are preparing for a full-on strike against new legislation to defund unions representing state, school district and municipal employees.

Every Public Employee Should Be Watching This Supreme Court Case

The livelihood of public employees is at stake in the U.S. Supreme Court.

The court recently heard arguments in Harris v. Quinn, a case that questions whether public employees who benefit from union representation can be required to share the costs of collective bargaining.

Private-Sector Union Representation Ticks Upward

A recovery in hiring in the construction and manufacturing industries led to the largest number of U.S. private-sector workers covered by a union contract since 2009, according to figures recently released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. About 8.1 million private-sector workers were covered by union contracts in 2013.

Machinists Union Locals Nominate Top Officers

More than 1,075 local lodges of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) conducted nominations on January 25 for Executive Council positions of International President, General Secretary-Treasurer and, for U.S. locals, eight General Vice Presidents.

Unemployment Benefit Extension Bill Remains at Standstill

In an effort to help some 1.3 million unemployed Americans tread water in these difficult times, Democrats returned to Washington this week armed with stories from unemployed Americans in their home states who were dropped from the federal unemployment benefit rolls on December 28, 2013. Congress neglected to extend the benefits leaving the 1.3 million out in the cold.

Tony Rippeto Named to IAM Law Committee

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger announced the appointment of District 9 Directing Business Representative (DBR) Tony Rippeto to serve on the IAM Law Committee. Rippeto will fill the position previously held by retired Law Committee member Ellen Arbogast

Reich: Higher Minimum Wage Equals Lower Income Inequality

Leveling out the distribution of wealth in the United State is going to take years, said former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich to a joint congressional committee, but increasing the minimum wage is a great place to start.

Young Machinists Gather to Plan Labor’s Future

It’s a common refrain from critics, or maybe a family member or colleague: “Young people are too apathetic to care about labor unions or workers’ rights.”

It couldn’t be further from the truth. Just ask any of the more than a hundred activists who came together at the IAM’s 2014 Young Workers and Emerging Leaders Conference in San Antonio, TX, to plan the labor movement’s future.

Congress Introduces Bill to Update 1965 Voting Rights Act

When the Supreme Court overturned critical portions of the 1965 Voting Rights Act in June of last year, it kicked the responsibility of replacement legislation to one of the least-productive Congresses in recent history.

IAM, NY Labor Leaders Rally Against ‘Fast Track’ Trade Deal

IAM Directing Business Representative Jim Conigliaro, Sr., of District 15 in New York, joined fellow New York labor leaders and local state Congressmen in a blistering snowstorm as they rallied against the recent introduction of “fast track” legislation in the U.S. Congress.

IndustriALL Condemns Murder of Colombian Trade Unionist

IndustriALL Global Union joins the Colombian labor movement in denouncing the vicious attack of another trade union leader in Colombia.

Union Plus Scholarship Deadline is January 31

You still have time to apply for a 2014 Union Plus Scholarship. The deadline for applications is January 31. This year's application is entirely online. Scholarships are from $500 to $4,000 and do not require repayment.

IAM Shipbuilders, Federal Workers See Gains in Spending Bill

A $100 million allocation for a fifth DDG-51 destroyer at Bath Iron Works (BIW) and a one percent pay raise for blue-collar NFFE-IAM and other federal members were among the spending items included in a $1.1 trillion omnibus appropriations bill passed in the House and Senate last week.

Support Locked-Out BCTGM Workers at Kellogg

More than 200 hardworking members of the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) International Union in Memphis need your help.

Local 10 Retiree Joe Harris Featured on 'Brotherhood Outdoors'

IAM retiree Joe Harris of IAM Local 10 in Richmond, VA, will be featured Sunday, February 16, 2014 at 11am EST on Brotherhood Outdoors, the Union Sportsmen's Alliance (USA) national outdoors television series.

Newsletter Course Deadline Extended to January 24

The application deadline for the 2014 Basic Newsletter Development course at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Placid Harbor, MD, has been extended to Friday, January 24, 2014.

IAM Films Expert Bankruptcy Panel

The IAM recently wrapped its first day of filming on a series of educational videos on corporate bankruptcy as it pertains to collective bargaining agreements.

Stewards at Palmdale and Sunnyvale Prepare for Negotiations with Lockheed

Stewards Training on December 4, 2013 for Lockheed Palmdale and Lockheed Sunnyvale on January 9, 2014, instructed stewards on the vital role they play in negotiations and how critical they are in making the upcoming Lockheed negotiations a success.

IAM Mourns Loss of ‘JD’ Lord in Workplace Accident

On Wednesday, January 8, 2014, a fire suppression system inside a hangar at Eglin AFB, FL was somehow triggered. Jonathan “JD” Lord, an IAM member employed with DS2 (Defense Support Systems LLC), lost his life. Three others were also injured.

IAM District 9 Celebrates the Career of Ellen Arbogast

IAM District 9 Business Representative and IAM Law Committee member Ellen Arbogast was honored at a large celebration of her career and retirement at the District 9 hall in Bridgeton, MO. Arbogast was one of many distinguished IAM women who inspired others to get involved and take leadership roles in the union.

Amazon Workers Vow to Continue Union Drive

A union election among 30 Maintenance Technicians at the Amazon warehouse in Middletown, DE may have fallen short of the majority needed, but workers there understand a successful organizing campaign often requires several election cycles before representation is achieved.

Florida Substance Abuse Center Negotiates First IAM Contract

The IAM’s Southern Territory and District 166 in Cocoa Beach, FL have negotiated a first contract for 15 recently-organized employees at Tropical Wellness Center (TWC), LLC.

Cashion, Castrillo Join Grand Lodge Auditing Team

IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr., has announced the hiring of Will Cashion, Jr., and Alejandro (Alex) Castrillo as Grand Lodge Auditors, effective January 1, 2014.

Keewatin Air Pilots Join IAM

Fifty Keewatin Air pilots have joined IAM Local Lodge 2247 in Winnipeg, Canada. They are the second group of Keewatin employees to join the IAM since 25 mechanics and parts personnel were organized in 2012.

Deadline Approaching for 2014 IAM Scholarship Competition

The deadline to apply for a 2014 IAM Scholarship Award is fast-approaching. Applications must be postmarked no later than February 25, 2014 to be considered.

Deadline Nears for Basic Newsletter Course

The application deadline for the 2014 Basic Newsletter Development course at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Placid Harbor, MD, is Thursday, January 16, 2014.

IAM Charges Fast Track Authority Bill Leaves U.S. Workers Out in the Cold

While ignoring the desperate plight of 1.3 million Americans who recently lost unemployment benefits, Congress today introduced a Fast Track bill that would subject the secretly-negotiated Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) free trade agreement to a straight up or down vote by Congress. 

IAM Kicks Off 2014 Organizing Apprentices Program

The IAM Organizing Department welcomed five Machinist activists to the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Center in Southern Maryland this week as part of the IAM’s 2014 Organizing Apprentices Program.

IAM-Delta Flight Attendant Campaign Lands in Amsterdam

Delta Air Lines Flight Attendants' quest for IAM representation arrived in Europe this week, as grassroots Delta Flight Attendant activists kicked off a week of organizing activities in Amsterdam, the Netherlands on Monday, January 6, 2014.

Next Generation of IAM Leaders Meets Next Week

More than 100 Young Machinists are gearing up for the 2014 IAM Young Workers and Emerging Leaders Conference to take place January 16 to 18 in San Antonio, TX.

Machinists at Boeing Ratify 777X Proposal

On January 3, 2014, IAM members employed by Boeing in Portland, OR, Wichita, KS and the Puget Sound area voted by 51 to 49 percent to accept an eight-year contract extension that includes $15,000 signing bonus and assures the 777X will be built in Puget Sound by IAM members.

305 Turkish Airlines Workers Reinstated

Turkish Airlines and Hava-Is, a Turkish affiliate of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), reached an agreement that will reinstate 305 terminated Turkish Airlines workers and end a 20-month dispute at the airline.

Jobless Benefit Extension Passes Key Hurdle in Senate

A bill to extend federal unemployment insurance benefits for an estimated 1.3 million jobless Americans has passed a critical test vote in the Senate.

Take action now by clicking here. Send your Senators and Representative a letter telling them to extend federal unemployment benefits today.

Don Barker Named Aerospace Coordinator

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has announced the appointment of Grand Lodge Representative Don Barker to the position of Aerospace Coordinator, effective January 1, 2014.

IAM Mourns Passing of Lifelong Activist Frank Darcy

The IAM mourns the passing of lifelong trade unionist Frank Darcy who passed away on December 27, 2013 at the age of 94. Born in Providence, RI, Darcy was raised in Ireland. After his return to the United States, Darcy maintained an active career as a skilled machinist, furthered his education in labor and other fields and was active in politics, all with the goal of improving the lives of fellow working men and women.

Union Democracy on Display in 777X Vote

After all the debates, rallies and earnest discussions in thousands of homes, IAM members will have the final say on January 3, 2014 about Boeing’s proposal to keep future 777X work in the Puget Sound area.

Retirees Department Bids Farewell to Micallef, Welcomes San Miguel

Charlie Micallef, who for the last three years has served as the IAM’s Retirees, Community and Membership Services Department Director, has announced his retirement effective January 1, 2014. Former Grand Lodge Representative Carlos San Miguel will serve as the new director of the department effective immediately.

Tune in January 5 to Watch IAM Local 2781 Member on ‘Brotherhood Outdoors’

IAM Local Lodge 2781 (Eddyville, KY) member Gene Barnes and his dad, Harlyn Barnes, will be featured Sunday, January 5 at 11 a.m. ET on “Brotherhood Outdoors,” a TV show on the Sportsman Channel sponsored by the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA).

Senators Call for Increased Manufacturing Support

Additional investment is needed to preserve and create manufacturing jobs that are critical to the middle class, according to a report released by Democrats on the congressional Joint Economic Committee.

IAM Members to Have Last Word on Boeing Proposal

On January 3, 2014, more than 30,000 IAM members at Boeing will have an opportunity to cast ballots on an historic proposal that would locate 777X wing fabrication and final assembly in Puget Sound. The proposal, which extends the current IAM-Boeing agreement to 2024, also contains an eight-year extension of the commitment to build the 737MAX in Puget Sound.

Machinists Seek $100M for BIW-built Fleet

The IAM is calling on Congress to approve funding that would offset a sequestration cut preventing the U.S. Navy from purchasing a full fleet of DDG-51-class destroyer ships.

Unemployment Benefit Extension Needed for 3.2 Million

The IAM calls for an extension of federal unemployment benefits after the Senate approved a budget deal Wednesday that left 1.3 million jobless Americans, including 20,000 veterans, out in the cold.

IAM Gives Back During Holiday Season

As the holidays draw closer, IAM Headquarters and Local Lodge 1943 in Middletown, OH, have been busy making the season just a little bit brighter for families in their communities.

Jackson, Chartrand Named to Canadian Territory Staff

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed District Lodge 78 Business Representative/Organizer Scott R. Jackson and District 11 Directing Business Representative/Organizer David Chartrand to serve as Special Representatives to the Canadian Territory, effective January 1, 2014.

December ‘IAM Journal’ Now Available

The December 2013 IAM Journal is now available to download via the new IAM Mobile 3.0 app.

Grand Lodge Sets Holiday Closing

IAM Headquarters will close for the holidays at the close of business Friday, December 20, and re-open Thursday, January 2, 2014. Best wishes to all for a safe and joyous holiday season.

Budget Deal Cuts Federal Workers' Pensions

The U.S. Senate looks poised to pass a federal budget that prevents another government shutdown and replaces some sequestration cuts, but also demands more damaging cuts to the federal workforce and fails to extend unemployment benefits for the long-term jobless.

NAFTA Marks 20 Years of Dismal Failure

December 2013 marks the 20th anniversary of the signing of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)… and a 20-year legacy of failed promises, a growing trade deficit, 682,900 lost jobs and counting.

New Survey Details Top Workplace Injuries

More than one in five Americans say they have been injured on the job, says a new survey conducted by FindLaw.com.

Union Women Fare Better in Pay, Benefits

Unionized women are far better off than women who aren’t in unions, affirms a recent study by the Center for Economic and Policy Research.

Fast-Food Workers Fight for Higher Pay

Protests calling for a living wage for fast food and restaurant workers around the country are heating up and spurring action.

Budget Deal Squeezes Federal Workers, Slams Unemployed

The recently-negotiated budget deal would prevent another government shutdown in January and includes temporary relief from sequestration over the next two years. But it also demands more sacrifice from federal employees and ends unemployment insurance for 1.3 million jobless workers.

IAM Members Ratify Contract at Pratt & Whitney

IAM members employed at two Pratt & Whitney sites in Connecticut ratified a new agreement with the company early this week. The new three-year accord covers about 2,800 employees at plants in Middletown and East Hartford, CT.

Parker, Almazan Named to Key Southern Territory Posts

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed Southern Territory Education Representative James Parker and District 166 Organizer Javier Almazan, Sr., to serve as Grand Lodge Special Representatives for the Southern Territory, effective December 1, 2013.

IAM Calls on Congress to Block Mobile Voice Calls in Flight

The IAM called on Congress to intervene and stop a proposal from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that would allow mobile voice calls in flight.

New Website Tracks Right-Wing ‘Stink Tanks’

Following the money just got easier.

The Center for Media and Democracy (CMD), publishers of ALECexposed.org, and ProgressNow have joined in the release of a new website that shines a much-needed light on the State Policy Network (SPN), a web of so-called U.S. “think tanks” that claim to be nonpartisan and independent, but are major drivers of the right-wing, ALEC-backed agenda hijacking state houses across the country.

Machinists Urge Slow Down on Fast Track for TPP

The IAM called on Congress to slow down the campaign for an expedited and secretly-negotiated Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement, during a recent panel discussion entitled “Do We Need Fast Track/Trade Promotion Authority?"

IAM Skips American Airlines NASDAQ Debut

The IAM announced it declined management's invitation to participate in the “new” American Airlines’ opening bell ceremony at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport celebrating the carrier’s first day of stock trading on the NASDAQ.

Nelson Mandela, a Union Man, Mourned Worldwide

The president of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) issued the following response to the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela:

“President Mandela dedicated his life to fighting for democracy, equality and freedom. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all who strive for a better and more just world...

IAM, World Celebrates Human Rights Day on December 10

Tuesday, December 10 is the 65th annual recognition of Human Rights Day, an international holiday that marks the United Nations adoption and proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948.

Help Guide Dogs Win 10 Million Charity Miles

Vote to help Guide Dogs of America (GDA) receive 10 million charity miles on United Airlines.

Connecticut District 26 Members Rally at Local Pratt Plant

Hundreds of IAM District 26 members employed by Pratt & Whitney (P&W) in East Hartford, and Middletown, CT, marched through the factory this week, shouting “solidarity forever” and blowing whistles, to demonstrate their support for their Negotiating Committee currently in talks for a new agreement.

Deadline Approaching for IAM Young Workers Conference

The deadline to reserve a hotel room under the special rate for the IAM’s Young Workers and Emerging Leaders Conference is December 17, 2013.

GLR Mike Rose Elected to BWI World Council

The Building and Wood Workers' International (BWI) has elected IAM Grand Lodge Representative Mike Rose to its World Council, the global union federation’s highest governing body when the World Congress is not in session.

Connecticut Local 1871 Feeds 90 Families for Thanksgiving

IAM Local 1871 in Groton, CT, completed its 23rd year of providing Thanksgiving baskets for out-of-work members and needy families in the community, and, in what has also become a tradition, they broke last years record.

Send the Gift of Guide Dogs This Holiday

Are you looking for a gift for someone on your gift list? Maybe they're hard to shop for or they already have everything.

Last Call to Enroll in 2014 Communicator Course

The enrollment deadline for the IAM Communications Department’s Communicator Course is Friday, December 6, 2013.

Tell Congress to Extend Federal Unemployment Benefits

Nearly 1.3 million jobless Americans are expected to lose their federal unemployment benefits just after the Christmas holiday unless Congress acts by December 28, 2013. Another 1.9 million are expected to lose their benefits by June 2014.

Machinists Union Calls on Congress in US Airways Dispute

The IAM has called on various state congressional delegations to press US Airways to settle its contract dispute with IAM members at the carrier.

Election, Black Friday Protests Show Support for ‘Raising the Wage’

Growing discontent over rising U.S. economic inequality was evidenced by electoral races in 2013, and could also play a major role in the 2014 midterm elections, says a recent report by the polling firm Lake Research Partners.

Districts 141, 142 Set to Bargain with Hawaiian Airlines

IAM Transportation Districts 141 and 142 have completed negotiations preparation for an upcoming round of collective bargaining with Hawaiian Airlines.

WWW Center 2013 Spanish Leadership Programs End on High Note

Fourteen members, officers and activists from across the IAM recently completed the Advanced Spanish Leadership Class at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center. The program, which was the final Spanish leadership class of 2013, was developed and delivered by members of the Spanish Leadership Working Group.

El Centro Educativo en Winpisinger Completa Clases de Liderazgo en Español 2013 con Gran Éxito

Catorce miembros, oficiales, y activistas de todo el alrededor de la IAM recientemente completaron la clase de Liderazgo Avanzado en Español en el Centro Educativo y Tecnológico de William W. Winpisinger. Este programa, que fue la clase final en español para 2013, fue desarrollado y desempeñado por los integrantes del Grupo Activo de Liderazgo en español.

November ‘IAM Journal’ Now Available

The November IAM Journal is now available to download via the new IAM Mobile 3.0 app.

Gruber, Zannella, Mersky Receive ‘Gift of Sight Awards’

IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Phil Gruber, Local 1363 Directing Business Representative Phil Zannella, Jr., and Onex Corp. Senior Managing Director Seth Mersky were honored with the 2013 “Gift of Sight Award” from Guide Dogs of America (GDA).

District 15 Inks Deal With Penn National Gaming

IAM District 15 reached an agreement with Penn National Gaming to work together to foster economic development in Plainville, MA and the surrounding communities.

DOE Announces Renewed Commitment to Closing Skills Gap

A new IAM video produced by the Machinists News Network outlines the Department of Education’s (DOE) newly-announced renewed commitment to adult education.

Congress Acts to Shut Down Filibusters

After years of destructive Republican obstructionism of nominee confirmations, Senate Democrats have decided to change the chamber’s rules to allow an up or down vote on most nominations.

Enroll Now for 2014 Communicator Course

The enrollment deadline for the 2014 IAM Communications Department’s Communicator Course is December 6, 2013.

Support Wal-Mart Workers on Black Friday

Instead of providing workers a living wage, multi-billion dollar company Wal-Mart is asking its workers to pitch in and donate food to each other so everyone can enjoy Thanksgiving dinner.

2013 IAM Retirees Conference Bridges Generational Divide

Hundreds of retired IAM members converged on Las Vegas this week for the 2013 IAM Retirees Conference.

IAM Helps Member Rescue Family in Philippines

When IAM Local 735 member Nabuoku Maat El of Nashville, TN, received word that one of the worst storms in recorded history was bearing down on his wife’s hometown of Naval, Biliran in the Philippines, he went into an immediate panic.

IAM Backs Stronger ‘Buy American’ Requirements

In a November 19 letter to all U.S. Senators, IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger urges support for an important amendment to strengthen “Buy American” requirements for U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) procurement contracts.

NC, TX Voter Suppression Laws Continue to Baffle

In today’s GOP voter suppression news, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory defends his state’s recent and controversial changes to early voting, saying he and fellow GOP lawmakers “didn’t shorten early voting, we compacted the calendar.”

‘Rethinking Free Trade’

A new round of negotiations on the extremely-flawed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a massive trade deal poised to kill more jobs than NAFTA, began November 19 in Salt Lake City, Utah. As the Obama administration’s top U.S. negotiators continue secret talks on the agreement, it’s worth taking a look back at a 2011 op-ed by then-former Maine governor Angus King published in Bowdoin College’s Daily Sun.

NFFE/IAM Wins Landslide Election at Aberdeen Proving Ground

Employees of the Army Contracting Command (ACC) at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Gunpowder, MD have a rich history of NFFE/IAM representation. However, a recent agency realignment brought a new group of contractors to the base, forcing a combination between new and veteran Aberdeen ACC employees. The new contractors also had a history of union representation.

IAM in Negotiations at Pratt and Whitney

IAM District 26 and Pratt and Whitney (P&W) recently opened a new round of contract talks covering 2,700 members at Local 700 in Middletown, CT and Local 1746 in East Hartford, CT.

IAM Hosts Expert Bankruptcy Panel Meeting

The IAM recently welcomed to headquarters a key group of bankruptcy experts, attorneys and representatives from the AFL-CIO, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) and the State University of New York (SUNY).  

IAM Delegates Stand Up for Working Women at 2013 CLUW Convention

More than 400 delegates from 40 International Unions met at the 17th Biennial Convention of the Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) in Reno, NV.  The theme for the convention was "CLUW: Moving the Working Women's Agenda Forward!"

Federal Workers Alliance Demands End to Budgetary Assaults on Federal Workforce

The IAM and the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) joined 17 other unions representing 300,000 federal workers in a joint letter to members of the House-Senate negotiating committee tasked with hammering out a budget deal urging lawmakers to craft a long-term solution that ends sequestration without inflicting additional financial burden on federal workers who have already suffered enough economic turmoil.

IAM District 9 Honors Military Veterans

IAM District 9 in Bridgeton, MO held its second annual Military Veterans Brunch on Sunday, November 10, 2013 to honor and remember the IAM District 9 veterans’ service and sacrifice. Greater St. Louis area veterans from Missouri and Illinois attended the event.

Machinists Vote to Reject Boeing Proposal

Sixty-seven percent of members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) District 751, District W-24 voted Wednesday to reject the Boeing Company’s offer of an eight-year contract extension that would have expired in 2024.

IAM Testifies on Damaging Sequestration Cuts

As Congress considers extending the misguided sequestration in ongoing budget talks, the Senate Subcommittee on Defense held an important hearing on sequestration’s crippling effects on jobs, troop safety and the nation’s defense manufacturing capability.

IAM Mourns Former Auditor Gerry Zannella

Former Grand Lodge Auditor Gerry Zannella passed away on November 8, 2013. Zannella was a member of Local Lodge 1017 in Providence, RI.

IAM Members Fly Union Flag at Cameron

At many companies, IAM members make the products or do the work but the public doesn’t know. That won’t be the case for any visitor to the Cameron company facility in Cheektowaga, NY.

2014 IAM Calendars Now On Sale

The 2014 IAM Calendar is now on sale. The popular calendar features the winners of the IAM Photo Contest. The cost is still $7 per calendar for individual orders and $5 per calendar for orders of 100 or more. Two dollars from each calendar sold are donated to Guide Dogs of America.

IAM Scores Organizing Win for 1,700 in Missouri

Workers at the Independence, MO plant that serves as the Defense Department’s primary source for military 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm and .50-caliber rifle ammunition voted recently to become the newest members of the IAM in Kansas City, MO.

District 751 to Vote November 13 on Boeing 777X Proposal

Voting is set to take place on Wednesday, November 13 on the Boeing proposal that would secure the 777X wing and fuselage production and assembly for the Puget Sound.

Machinists Union: US Airways Chooses Labor Unrest

“US Airways’ celebration is premature,” said IAM District 141 President Rich Delaney on the announcement of a deal between US Airways, American Airlines and the Department of Justice that removed government opposition to the proposed merger. “Until the carrier negotiates new contracts for its own IAM-represented employees, the new American Airlines will not get off the ground.”

Civil Rights Group Highlights Minority Health Disparities

Minority health care took center stage at a recent event hosted by the National Action Network (NAN) in Washington, DC.

Tell the Senate to Confirm Yellen for Fed Reserve Chair

In the very near future, the Senate Banking Committee will schedule hearings on Janet Yellen's nomination to be Chairwoman of the Federal Reserve. President Obama picked Yellen to replace Ben Bernanke who retires in early 2014.

IAM Mourns Retired Administrative Assistant Wayne Coin

Retired IAM Administrative Assistant Wayne Coin died October 31, 2013 at his home in Milan, MO.

IAM Members to Vote on Boeing 777X Proposal

IAM members at District 751 and District W-24 will vote on November 13, 2013 on a proposal from the Boeing Company that, if approved, would guarantee the Boeing 777X wings and fuselage will be built by IAM members in the Puget Sound.

Register Now for IAM Young Workers/Emerging Leaders Conference

Register now for the IAM’s Young Workers and Emerging Leaders Conference to be held in San Antonio, TX, January 16-18, 2014. The conference will be in conjunction with the AFL-CIO’s 2014 Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance which is also taking place in San Antonio.

Veterans Day: In Honor of All Those Who Have Served

Monday, November 11, 2013 is Veterans Day. Please take time out to honor the men and women in the armed forces who are serving and have served our nation.

Congress Tries Something New: Bills that Create Jobs

A group of Senate Democrats are doing what most of this gridlocked Congress refuses to do – introduce bills that put Americans back to work.

Fighting Machinist, Charlie Bryan, Dies at 79

Former IAM District 100 President and leader of the famed IAM strike at Eastern Airlines in the late 1980s died at a retirement community outside Orlando, FL. He suffered from leukemia and Parkinson’s disease.

Voting Underway for Election Day 2013

Candidates for governor, mayor, and a host of ballot issues are on the ballot Tuesday as voters across the country take to the polls for Election Day 2013.

2013 Photo Contest Winners Announced

Results of the 2013 IAM Photo Contest are in and the 2014 Calendar is rolling off the presses.

San Fran MTA and Public Workers Complete Bargaining Prep at WWW

IAM-represented city and county workers of San Francisco along with San Francisco Municipal Transit Agency (MTA) employees are preparing for tough negotiations.

Guide Dogs Visits Corpus Christi Bike Fest

In a new video produced by the Machinists News Network, Guide Dogs of America (GDA) roars into the Corpus Christi Bike Fest in Corpus Christi, TX.

Minnesota Retirees Form Machinists State Council

After much planning and collaboration, a core group of dedicated and persistent retired Machinists have officially formed the Minnesota State Council of Machinists Retirees.

New IAM Video on Fight to Preserve America’s Pensions

The IAM will not stand idly by as Congress attempts to pass legislation that would allow “deeply-troubled” multi-employer pension plans to cut benefits for current retirees, said IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger at a recent IAM press conference held outside a House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions (HELP) hearing.

New Sequestration, Budget Talks Begin Ahead of Dec. 13 Deadline

A congressional budget conference committee made up of Senate and House members met for the first time Wednesday, October 30, in a joint effort to avoid another government shutdown and to address a second round of sequestration spending cuts scheduled to take effect January 15, 2014.

ILO Rejects Canada Law Barring Right to Strike

In response to a complaint filed by the IAM, the International Labor Organization’s (ILO) Committee on Freedom of Association found that the Conservative Canadian Government violated international labor rights when it passed the so-called Protecting Air Services Act (Bill C-33), a measure that made it illegal for members of the IAM and the Pilots Union at Air Canada to exercise their right to strike under the Canada Labour Code. The bill also imposed “final offer” arbitration on both unions, based on criteria clearly favoring Air Canada.

IAM, USW and UAW Join to Ensure Fair Trade in TPP

The IAM has joined with the United Steelworkers and United Auto Workers in a joint proposal to protect workers in each of the countries signed-on to the overly-ambitious, extremely-flawed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a proposed free trade agreement that’s currently being negotiated in secrecy and with no congressional oversight.

Eastern Territory Launches New Automotive Organizing Website

A new website launched by the IAM Eastern Territory and designed by Grand Lodge Representative Mark Ward caters specifically to automotive professionals and facilitates their efforts to organize a union shop where they work. The site, unionmechanic.org, is an innovative “Virtual Garage” that contains a variety of information from the types of employers with IAM-represented employees to hands-on tools to get an organizing drive started in non-union shops.

Make Reservations for 2013 Guide Dogs Conference

It’s not too late to register to attend the 2013 Guide Dogs of America Conference. This year’s conference will be held November 21-23, 2013 in Las Vegas.

Machinists Union Opposes Plan to Cut Pensions

At a hearing by the House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions, IAM voiced its strong opposition to any new federal legislation that would allow “deeply-troubled” multi-employer defined benefit pension plans to reduce benefits to current retirees, a practice that is not permitted by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).

IAM Members Ratify Contracts at United Airlines

After more than four years of negotiations, a merger of three airlines and numerous representation elections, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) today announced members at United Airlines ratified agreements covering approximately 30,000 fleet service, passenger service and stockroom employees.

IAM, CSX Reach Historic Deal in West Virginia Plant

Reversing a decades-long trend of sub-contracting locomotive maintenance work in the rail sector, the IAM announced an historic deal with CSX in the Huntington, West Virginia plant.

IAM Shows Solidarity with Brazilian Metalworkers

IAM members stood side-by-side with Brazilian metalworkers as they aired their grievances over unsatisfactory wage increases at aerospace company Embraer.

Ohio State Council of Machinists Endorse Fitzgerald for Governor

The Ohio State Council of Machinists (OSCM) endorsed Cuyahoga County Executive and former FBI Agent Ed FitzGerald for governor at its fall meeting in Columbus, OH. The OSCM counts 30,000 IAM workers and retirees in Ohio.

House Hearing to Cut Retiree Pensions Set for Oct. 29

A contingent of IAM members and retirees will be attending an upcoming House committee hearing on “pension reform” and changes to laws governing the nation’s multi-employer pension system on Tuesday, October 29, 2013.

Second Round of Sequestration Threatens the F-35 Fighter Program

An article posted on The Hill website warns that sequestration could kill four or five F-35 fighter jets in 2014 if the across-the-board cuts are not averted.

Fair Labor Standards Act Marks 75 Years

October 24 marks the 75th anniversary of the day the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) went into effect. The landmark bill outlawed child labor, established the 40-hour work week, guaranteed overtime pay and instituted a national minimum wage.

NY Times Profiles IAM Lobstermen in Maine

The IAM’s year-long campaign to help establish the Maine Lobstermen’s Union was given extensive print and photo coverage in the October 10 edition of the New York Times. The article, titled “Some Wary as Lobstermen Unite,” dominated the front page of the paper’s National section and described how organizers signed up more than 600 men and women to create the first IAM local lodge dedicated exclusively to Maine’s lobster fishermen.

Illinois Machinist Wins Wrongful Discharge Case

Here’s another great example of why it pays to have a union contract. IAM Local 126 member Tom Symmes is back at work after being wrongfully discharged. Symmes was terminated when his employer, LPB Manufacturing in Cicero, IL, unilaterally changed the attendance policy without notification or bargaining. He was involved in an ongoing first contract effort at the company.

Twitter Followers Pounce on Campaign to Cut Social Security

Ouch!

It’s fair to say billionaire Pete Peterson’s anti-deficit lobbying group Fix the Debt got more than it bargained for when the organization recently decided to hold a Q&A session on Twitter. The fearmongering campaign was trying to sell young taxpayers of the “Twitterverse” on its agenda for cutting grandma’s and grandpa’s Social Security and Medicare.

Sign Up to Keep Chinese-Processed Chicken Out of U.S.

The next chicken you eat could take a detour to China before ending up at your local grocery store—unless you help Roger Simmermaker, president of IAM Local 610 of Cape Canaveral, FL, stop a bad idea in its tracks.

Bangladesh Safety Accord Reaches 100 Brand Milestone

More than 100 global brands have signed the Bangladesh Accord on Fire and Building Safety, a landmark agreement driven by global unions IndustriALL and UNI in the aftermath of the Rana Plaza building collapse in April 2013.

Last-Minute Vote Derails Tea Party Crazy Train

The federal government reopened Thursday after a 16-day shutdown. The shutdown, triggered by Tea Party conservatives, rattled the already-fragile U.S. and global economies, closed federal agencies, furloughed hundreds of thousands of federal workers and drove the country to the brink of default.

Introducing the New IAM Mobile 3.0 App

The IAM App is embarking on its third year with the launch of IAM Mobile 3.0, a new cutting-edge tool that lets IAM members stay up-to-date with their union like never before.

New Front Opens in War on Pensions

If there is a bright side to the GOP government shutdown, it may be the decision by the House Education and the Workforce Committee to postpone an October 10 hearing to consider “pension reform” and changes to laws governing the nation’s multi-employer pension plans.

California Machinists Raise Over $45,000 for Guide Dogs

With fall festivities in full swing, Machinists in California were determined to take part by participating in events for a good cause.

The Strong Arm of the Law

With more than 5,000 contracts covering workers in dozens of major industries, the IAM is recognized as one of the most diversified labor unions in North America. But a recent contract negotiated for paralegals and office personnel in Maine brings that diversity into sharp relief.

Op-Ed: F-35 Critical to Good Jobs and U.S. Defense

Continued funding for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program is essential to a strong economy and national defense, says an op-ed written by IAM District 725, Huntington Beach, CA, Organizing Director Brian Miller in the Hanford Sentinel.

Take action today. Tell Congress to stop sequestration by clicking here.

District 15 Assistant DBR Mike Walsh Wins Journeyman Award

IAM District 15 Assistant Directing Business Representative Mike Walsh, a 47-year IAM member, was awarded the first-ever R. Thomas Buffenbarger Journeyman Award at the 2013 IAM Automotive Conference in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

CBTU Co-Founder Bill Lucy Addresses ‘Desperate’ State of Black Workers

Revered labor leader Bill Lucy, a Co-Founder and former President of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU), called on Congress to enact New Deal-style public works programs at a panel discussion on black workers at Georgetown University.

House Dems Push ‘Discharge Petition’ to Force Vote, End Shutdown

House Democrats are exploring an alternative option for breaking the political stalemate and reopening the U.S. government. They have written each of the 30 House Republicans who have expressed support for a clean government funding bill, urging the GOP members to sign onto a “discharge petition.”

Federal Employees to Congress: ‘Let Us Work’

Federal workers’ unions could not stop the rain at a Capitol Hill rally, but they let House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) know that he can stop this government shutdown.

Labor Speaks Out Against Three Coal Mining Deaths Amid Government Shutdown

Workers in the U.S. coal mining industry have a message for Congress: “while you’re squabbling, workers are dying.”

Donate to the IAM Disaster Relief Fund

The IAM Disaster Relief Fund has taken quite a hit after the record year of devastation that has impacted IAM members throughout the country. The fund needs donations and fellow IAM members can help.

‘Two-Tier’ Voting Looks to Further Disenfranchise Citizens

Officials in Arizona and Kansas are planning to implement a two-tier voting system as a way to comply with federal voting laws while keeping their strict state proof of citizenship laws in place.

Last Call for 2013 Communicator Course Enrollment

The Communications Department will still accept enrollments for the Communicator Course until October 15, 2013.

Belshaw Workers Ratify Agreement After Six-Month Strike

Closing the books on a 196-day strike, IAM District Lodge 160 Directing Business Representative Dan Morgan announced that IAM Local Lodge 79 members employed at Belshaw Adamatic in Seattle overwhelmingly approved the company's latest offer which included the last key provision the union held the line to achieve: All of the union members would go back to work and the "permanent replacement workers" would be dismissed.

Trabajadores Belshaw Ratifican Acuerdo Después de una Huelga de Seis Meses

Se cierran los libros en una huelga de 196 días, Dan Morgan, Representante de Empresas del Distrito IAM 160 anunció que los miembros de IAM Logia Local 79 de Belshaw Adamatic en Seattle aprobaron por mayoría la última oferta de la empresa que incluye la última disposición clave del sindicato mantuvo la línea y lograron: Todos los miembros del sindicato volverían a trabajar y los "trabajadores de sustitución permanente" serían despedidos.

‘Rolling Stone’ Unveils Blueprint of Nationwide Scheme to Attack Pensions

A scathing article in Rolling Stone by investigative journalist Matt Taibbi, entitled “Looting the Pension Funds,” takes a harsh look at how “all across America, Wall Street is grabbing money meant for public workers.”

Government Shutdown Continues to Cause Pain for Working Families

Federal employees and their unions, including the IAM-affiliated National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), now in the eighth day of the government shutdown, continue to demand that Congress end its standoff and reopen the federal government.

WWW Welcomes First IAM Members from U.S. Virgin Islands

Two IAM Local 340 members have made history by becoming the first IAM members from the U.S. Virgin Islands to attend classes at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center in Southern Maryland.

IAM District W24 Recognized by Oregon AFL-CIO for Leadership in Organizing

IAM District Lodge W24 was recognized for leadership and strength in the Oregon Organizing Project at the 53rd Oregon AFL-CIO Convention held in Bend, OR on September 29, 2013.

Federal Workers Bear Brunt of Shutdown

The government shutdown poses severe risks for federal workers and their local communities, says NFFE-IAM Federal District 1 President William R. Dougan in a new Machinists News Network video.

Take action now by clicking here. Tell your Senators and Representative to pass a clean budget and re-open the U.S. government for business.

Chinese Trade Deficit Cost American Workers $37 Billion in 2011

The growing trade deficit with China cost the U.S. economy $37 billion in wages in 2011 alone, and eliminated over 2.1 million manufacturing jobs from 2001 to 2011, according to a new Economic Policy Institute report.

IAM Retiree Receives 70-Year Veteran Pin

Retired Grand Lodge Auditor Theron Black has received the Machinists Union’s 70-year Veteran award for his many years of service as an IAM member.

Snake and Mongoose: A Union-Made, Family-Friendly Film

IAM members looking for a break from today’s sex and violence-soaked movie offerings will enjoy “Snake and Mongoose,” a new independent film produced entirely by union members. The film tells the story of Don “The Snake” Prudhomme and Tom “The Mongoose” McEwen, who reigned over the world of dragster and funny car racing in the late 1960s and 1970s.

NFFE/IAM President to Congress: ‘Do the Right Thing’

As hundreds of thousands of federal employees awoke to a government shutdown this morning, William R. Dougan, National President of the National Federation of Federal Employees, a national union affiliated with the IAM that represents 110,000 federal workers throughout the U.S., issues a statement.

TAKE ACTION: Call Congress at 202-224-3121 to tell your Senators and Representative that federal employees shouldn’t be punished to score political points.

Machinists Union Reaches Tentative Contracts for Over 28,000 at United Airlines

The IAM has reached three tentative agreements with United Airlines, covering over 28,000 workers from the Fleet Service, Public Contact and Storekeeper classifications.

IAM Local 700 Member Leads Connecticut AFL-CIO

The Machinists Union applauds the election of IAM Local 700 member Lori Pelletier to become the next Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Connecticut AFL-CIO.

North Carolina Sued Over Discriminatory Voting Law

The U.S. Justice Department is embarking on a suit against a new restrictive voting law in North Carolina, which requires photo identification for in-person voting and cuts back on early voting and same-day registration.

WWW Class Prepares Aerojet Rocketdyne Employees for Upcoming Negotiations

IAM District 725 and affiliated Local 946 members prepared for upcoming negotiations with Aerojet Rocketdyne by developing a multifaceted strategic plan at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Training Center in Southern Maryland. The current contract is scheduled to expire June 16, 2014.

Communicator Course Deadline is Oct. 4

The enrollment deadline for the 2013 IAM Communications Department’s Communicator Course is October 4.

Budget Negotiations Enter Final Stage

Congressional Republicans appear willing to delay a fight on the Affordable Care Act (ACA), allowing the federal government to remain open into the next fiscal year that begins October 1.

IAM Retiree Inducted into Nebraska Labor Leaders Hall of Fame

The IAM congratulates Local 1569 retiree Harold Rohr on his induction into the Nebraska Labor Leaders Hall of Fame.

Spanish Leadership II Gives Crash Course in Labor Issues

The Spanish Working Group at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center recently began a week of intense training in Spanish Leadership II with a group of Spanish-speaking members from IAM Locals across the country.

La Clase de Liderazgo II da Curso Intensivo en Cuestiones Laborales

El Grupo de Español ubicado en el Centro Tecnológico y Educativo William W. Winpisinger recientemente dio la bienvenida a miembros de habla Hispana procediendo de logias locales de todo el país para empezar una semana intensa en Liderazgo II en Español.

U.S. Inequality is Even Worse Than You Thought

A new study confirms what America has been feeling for decades: the rich are getting richer while the rest of the country struggles to make ends meet.

Tell Congress to Vote ‘No’ On Any Proposal to Cut U.S. Pensions

America’s pensions are under attack. And it could be getting worse.

TAKE ACTION NOW: Click here to tell your Senators and Representative to vote “NO” on any proposal that cuts America’s pensions.

IAM Urges Opposition to TPP ‘Fast Track’ Feature

The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement is an overly-ambitious, extremely-flawed plan that must have congressional oversight, says IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger in a recent letter to House members, urging their support of Reps. Rosa DeLauro’s (D-CT) and George Miller’s (D-CA) letter to President Obama demanding an end to the “fast track” process being used to ratify the TPP agreement.

Southern States Conference Focuses on Growth

The third Southern States Conference of Machinists convened in Myrtle Beach, SC with newly-appointed Southern Territory GVP Mark Blondin acknowledging those who led the way.

Reich to Debut New Documentary on Sept. 27

It’s time to get Big Money out of politics, says former Labor Secretary Robert Reich in his new documentary film “Inequality for All.”

GOP-Backed Bill Attacks Collective Bargaining Rights

Republican lawmakers in Congress have proposed another dubiously-titled bill that would undercut collective bargaining rights for every American.

Communicator Course Deadline is Oct. 4

The enrollment deadline for the 2013 IAM Communications Department’s Communicator Course is October 4.

Tea-Party Push for Government Shutdown

Right-wing conservatives are again using the threat of a government shutdown to accomplish their anti-worker agenda. Party like it’s 1995, they say – the last time the GOP forced the federal government to shut its doors.

House Republicans Look to Slash Food Stamps, Defund Health Care Law

As the countdown to a possible government shutdown ticks to fewer than two weeks, House Republicans are spending their time voting to slash food stamps and, of course, defund the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

IAM Honors Heroic Flight Attendant

To honor her heroism and quick response to avert a potentially catastrophic event, the IAM Joint Air Transport Safety Committee (JATSC) presented IAM member and ExpressJet Flight Attendant Sandra Hinojosa the Excellence in Safety award today at the bi-annual District 142 Convention in Orlando.

Harley-Davidson Celebrates 110 Years

Bikers know that while four wheels move the body, two wheels move the soul.

Deadline Approaching for 2013 IAM Retirees Conference

Calling all retirees! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join us at the IAMAW Retirees Conference at Bally’s in Las Vegas on November 19-21, 2013.

Make Reservations for 2013 Guide Dogs Conference Now

The 2013 Guide Dogs of America Conference will be held November 21-23, 2013 in Las Vegas.

IAM/TCU Leaders Defend America’s Pensions and Health Care

IAM and TCU leaders continue to shine a much-needed light on two working family issues currently under attack: pensions and health care.

District 751 Young Machinists Tell Scott Walker to ‘Go Home’

IAM District 751 Young Machinists have made it clear: Wisconsin Republican Gov. Scott Walker’s anti-union rhetoric isn’t welcome in Washington State.

Machinists to US Airways: Contract Now

The National Mediation Board (NMB) held a “status conference” with IAM Districts 141 and 142 regarding the ongoing US Airways Mechanic and Related and Fleet Service contract negotiations. The NMB also met separately with the carrier.

IAM Remembers 1963 Birmingham Church Bombing Victims

Fifty years ago, less than a month after the 1963 March on Washington, a bomb exploded at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL, killing four young African-American girls. The bombing, perpetrated by a white supremacist, became a defining moment of the Civil Rights Movement and sparked the outrage that led to the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Stan Pickthall Named Canadian Chief of Staff

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed Stan Pickthall as the new Chief of Staff.

AFL-CIO Convention Marked by High Hopes, Unfinished Business

The AFL-CIO National Convention concluded this week after delegates approved a dizzying array of more than 45 resolutions, many designed to extend the benefits of the labor movement to like-minded community groups. The delegates also elected AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka and Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler to new four-year terms and chose Tefere Gebre to be Executive Vice-President, filling the vacancy left by retiring Executive Vice-President Arlene Holt Baker.

Herrnstadt Tapped as IP Chief of Staff

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger today announced IAM Trade and Globalization Department Director Owen Herrnstadt as the new Chief of Staff to the International President, effective September 1, 2013.

WWW Center Ceremony Pays Tribute to 9/11 Victims

Like many throughout the country, the 12th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks gave IAM members a chance to reflect. The Machinists Union lost three members that day, and countless others know someone directly affected by the tragedies at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and on Flight 93 which crashed in Shanksville, PA.

Southern Territory Organizes Rehab Center

IAM District 166 organized 15 employees at Tropical Wellness Center, a certified drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility near the shores of Palm Bay, FL.

Oregon Machinists Raise $4,000 for Guide Dogs

Machinists of IAM/Woodworkers District W24 and Local 63 in Gladstone, OR hit the road recently in the 7th Annual Guide Dogs Dash poker run.

September 11 – A Day to Remember Victims and Heroes

Today marks the 12th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on our nation. Each year, we remember those who died in that tragedy and the thousands of courageous individuals who helped save lives during the disaster and its aftermath.

2013 AFL-CIO Convention Underway in Los Angeles

Massachusetts Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren was given a rock star’s welcome at the 2013 AFL-CIO Convention in Los Angeles, where she credited delegates for her recent election and emphatically declared her support for labor’s goals and achievements.

Mark Schneider Named IAM General Counsel

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger today announced Mark Schneider will join the IAM Legal Department as General Counsel, effective October 1, 2013. Schneider will replace outgoing General Counsel Chris Corson, who is concluding a 17-year IAM career that included five years as the IAM’s top legal officer.

Indiana Judge: ‘Right to Work’ is Unconstitutional

An Indiana judge has declared the state’s “right-to-work” law unconstitutional, echoing what organized labor has been saying since the harmful legislation began sweeping across state legislatures throughout the country.

Flight Attendants Raise Money for Flight 93 Memorial

On the eve of the 12th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, IAM-represented Flight Attendants joined the Flight Attendant Union Coalition to request that members of Congress make voluntary personal contributions to close a $1.5 million funding gap for the Flight 93 National Memorial.

IAM Retiree Re-Elected to Democratic Seniors Position

The IAM is excited to announce that Maria Cordone, retired Director of the Retirees, Community and Membership Services Department, has been re-elected as the Executive Vice Chair to the National Democratic Committee - Seniors Coordinating Council (DNC-SCC).

5th Annual Stansbury Days Car Show Benefits Guide Dogs

Seventy-five cars showed up to the 5th Annual Stansbury Days Car Show at Stansbury Park, UT, making this Guide Dogs of America fundraising event a tremendous success.

Fight for Workers' Pensions Hitting High Gear

The first salvos in the battle for workers’ pensions have been fired, and the war could be coming to the U.S. Congress this month.

Machinists Welcome U.S. Labor Secretary Tom Perez

Labor Secretary Tom Perez said he will make job creation his top priority as he was officially sworn in by Vice President Joe Biden this week. Perez inherits a struggling economy with 22 million unemployed Americans and a political landscape with pension plans and organizing rights under fierce attack.

IAM, US Airways to Meet With NMB

The National Mediation Board (NMB) has scheduled a “status conference” with the IAM and US Airways in Washington D.C. on Tuesday September 10, 2013 regarding the Mechanic and Related and Fleet Service negotiations

Scholarship Helps Daughter of IAM Member Realize Dream of College Education

The IAM congratulates Corinne Demler, daughter of IAM member Jill Gaskell of Local 276, Blanchardville, WI, on winning a $5,000 AFL-CIO/Union Plus “Dreams of Jobs and Freedom” Scholarship.

Fort Worth Machinists Raise Over $15,000 for Guide Dogs

IAM District Lodge 776 in Fort Worth, TX hit the links recently to raise over $15,000 for the Guide Dogs of America (GDA).

IAM Mourns Retiree and 1959 Plane Crash Survivor Phil Bradley

Retired IAM Organizer and sole survivor of the historic Piedmont Airlines Flight 349 crash of 1959, Phil Bradley, died August 23, 2013.

‘44 Million Reasons’ to Protect U.S. Pensions

The IAM cited “44 million reasons” to defend America’s pensions in a new full-page ad published in USA Today. The ad ran from Friday, August 30, 2013 to Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2013.

New Video Highlights Dark Side of TPP Free Trade Agreement

The AFL-CIO has released a new video showcasing the potential detrimental effects of the impending Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement.

August ‘IAM Journal’ Now Available

The August IAM Journal is now available to download – via the free IAM app – on an iPhone, iPad, Android tablet, Android phone or Kindle Fire. The IAM Journal can also be viewed online and printed in a PDF format.

Tackett Appointed Head of IAM Auditing Team

IAM General Secretary-Treasurer (GST) Robert Roach, Jr., announced the appointment of Jane Tackett as Director of Auditing Services effective September 16, 2013.

Seewald Hired as Winpisinger Center Education Representative

The IAM is proud to announce that Miriam Seewald has been hired as an Education Representative at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, MD, effective September 15, 2013.

Suarez Appointed Western Territory Special Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed Richard Suarez to the Western Territory staff. Suarez has been transitioning from his post as an Education Representative at the William W. Winpisinger Center to Grand Lodge Special Representative in Southern California for a couple of months now; his full transition was effective September 1.

A Labor Day Message from IAM President Tom Buffenbarger

On August 28, 2013, tens of thousands converged upon Washington, DC to mark the 50th anniversary of the historic 1963 March on Washington, the setting of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

50 Years Later, America Recalls the Dream

Bells tolled, freedom rang and the dream was reaffirmed as Americans came together on the National Mall and across the country to commemorate the 50th anniversary – to the day – of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

District 751 Golfs and Rides for Guide Dogs

IAM District 751, Seattle, capped off the remaining days of summer with two successful fundraisers for Guide Dogs of America (GDA).

Sportsman Channel Hosts Labor Day ‘Brotherhood Outdoors’ Marathon

Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) and the Sportsman Channel are teaming up again to honor and recognize the contributions of American workers and sportsmen and women during the Labor Day Brotherhood Outdoors Marathon Salute to American Workers and Celebration of America's Parks.

Machinists March on Washington for Jobs, Justice and Freedom

The continued quest to realize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision outlined in his famous “I Have a Dream” speech drew tens of thousands from across the country to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington.

Justice Department to Challenge Texas Voter ID Law

The Justice Department is suing Texas over its controversial and discriminatory voter ID law, signaling a willingness of the Obama administration to protect minority voting rights despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that struck down a key section of the Voting Rights Act (VRA).

Maryland Members at DynCorp Near Contract Deadline

The clock is about to strike midnight for DynCorp.

Despite months of talks, management at the military base contractor continues to drag its feet in negotiations with over 900 IAM Local 4 members at Patuxent River Naval Air Station in Southern Maryland. The company’s contract with the IAM expires Friday, August 30, 2013.

Flight Attendants Finally Earn OSHA Protection

On the heels of a successful fight to keep knives off the country’s commercial aircraft, Flight Attendants are celebrating another victory that extends many health and safety standards to inside the passenger cabin.

Nikki Haley Sells Out South Carolina Workforce

It's no secret that South Carolina Republican Gov. Nikki Haley hates labor unions – you know, the ones who painted the Statehouse where she works, and the thousands of unionized police officers, firefighters, and military employees who keep South Carolina safe every day.

Delegates Gather for 2013 IAM Transportation Conference

The 2013 IAM Transportation Conference convened in Las Vegas, NV on the heels of the major organizing win where the IAM defeated the International Brotherhood of Teamsters in an election to represent nearly 4,600 Mechanic and Related employees at US Airways.

Join the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the March on Washington

On Saturday, August 24, 2013, the IAM will join the entire North American labor movement, human rights activists and the faith community in commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech.

WI Gov. Scott Walker Continues Assault on Public Dissent

Add freedom of assembly to the list of Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker’s enemies.

Register Now for 2013 IAM Retirees Conference

Are you ready to have fun with IAM Brothers and Sisters and safeguard hard-won union benefits?  If so, join us for the 2013 Retirees Conference at Bally’s Las Vegas Hotel.

Join the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the March on Washington

Fifty years ago this year, Dr. Martin Luther, King, Jr., TCU/IAM’s own A. Philip Randolph and Civil Rights Activist Bayard Rustin led a gathering of Americans from all walks of life in a march on the Nation’s Capital to demand a better way of life, to banish discrimination and to secure the notion that a job was a right, not a privilege.

New North Carolina Voting Law Takes a Shot at Democracy

North Carolina has become the first domino to fall in the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court’s gutting of the Voting Rights Act (VRA).

Teamsters Pull Plug on American Raid

Amid charges of forged election authorization cards and after more than a year of causing conflict and division among workers at American Airlines and US Airways, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) has abandoned its raid of Mechanic and Related Workers at American Airlines.

Winpisinger Center Class Preps Okeelanta Corp. Employees for Negotiations

The Negotiating Committee for over 550 IAM Local Lodge 2152 members at South Bay, FL-based sugar manufacturer Okeelanta Corp. met at the William W. Winpisinger Center recently to develop a multi-faceted strategic plan for their upcoming talks with the company. The current contract expires October 31, 2013.

UnioNation Band Records First Album

IAM members express their solidarity in a number of ways – on the strike line, at the ballot box or simply with some words of encouragement to a union brother or sister. For unioNation, a band founded by IAM members who hope their songs will inspire union and non-union workers to fight for justice on the job, solidarity means a guitar chord, a chorus verse, and soon their very own album.

Machinists Union Presses for Contracts at US Airways Amid Merger Uncertainty

The Justice Department and six state attorneys general have filed suit to block the proposed merger of US Airways and American Airlines.

IAM, UE and Kenyon College Commit to Partnership

Members of IAM Local 2794, in conjunction with management at Kenyon College in Gambier, OH, have come together to form a mutually-beneficial partnership that looks to build a foundation of shared decision making, improved work processes and job security.

Civil Rights Activist Bayard Rustin Earns Much-Deserved Recognition

In anticipation of the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington, President Obama will posthumously award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to labor, civil and human rights activist Bayard Rustin.

New ‘Made in America’ Stamps Pay Homage to 20th-Century Workers

The Labor Department and the Postal Service have teamed up to honor courageous American workers who put their hands and hearts into making the United States a world leader in manufacturing and innovation. The “Made in America: Building a Nation” Forever stamps, released on August 8, conjure memories of 20th-century industrialism – a welder and riveter atop the Empire State Building, an airplane maker, a railroad track walker and more.

Machinists Union Wins Election for 4,600 Mechanic and Related Employees at US Airways

In a contest overseen by the National Mediation Board (NMB), the IAM defeated the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) in an election to represent nearly 4,600 Mechanic and Related employees at US Airways. The IAM received 1,903 votes, or 58 percent of all votes cast in the five-week election, while the IBT received 1,418 votes, less than 42 percent.

Pledge to Protect Social Security on its 78th Birthday

Birthdays can serve as a time to celebrate, reflect or – for some of us – simply wish there were a few less candles on the cake. For Social Security, which turns 78 on Wednesday, August 14, it’s a call to action.

Tennessee Nurses Celebrate Hard-Earned IAM Contract

Solidarity has paid off for about 50 Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) at the Golden Living Center in Springfield, TN who have secured an IAM contract.

District 751, Boeing Program Stresses Importance of Math and Science Skills

A select group of Seattle-area high school math and science teachers now have real-life examples of why it’s important to excel in their classes. Thanks to a partnership with IAM District 751 and the Boeing Co., the teachers were able to participate in a two-week “externship” at Boeing shops in Everett and Renton, WA.

Eastern Territory Responds to Jones Act Attacks

IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Lynn D. Tucker, Jr. and the Seaway Task Force (STF) have joined in a combined effort to denounce recent attacks on the Jones Act, which provides meaningful employment for hundreds of thousands of workers in maritime-related jobs.

Senate Committee Approves End to Federal Pay Freeze

The Senate Appropriations Committee has approved a measure to boost defense civilian pay by one percent in 2014, potentially breaking a current three-year pay freeze.

Machinists Union is 20,000 Strong on Facebook

The IAM is proud to announce that the Machinists Union has reached 20,000 “likes” on Facebook.

Labor Video Features IAM Members at GKN

A new Long Island Federation of Labor video highlights the positive impacts that labor unions, including the IAM, are having on the lives of workers and their communities.

Make Plans Now for 2013 IAM Automotive Conference

The 2013 IAM Automotive Conference is scheduled for October 1 to 4, 2013, at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Bill Press Show Moves to Satellite TV and Web

Beginning September 3, 2013, longtime Machinists friend, talk radio host and author Bill Press will be moving The Bill Press Show to Free Speech TV.

Jay Leno Rags on White House for Congressional ACA Exemption

Late-night comedian Jay Leno took a jab at the White House for its decision to continue paying part of the health insurance premiums for members of Congress and Hill staffers once they are moved into the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance exchanges.

IAM Retiree Honored as Human Rights ‘History Maker’

The IAM’s 125-year history has its share of noted human rights leaders and activists, but never before has the union’s rolls been graced by a woman quite like Ruth Waddell.

August 6 Marks 48th Anniversary of Voting Rights Act

Tuesday, August 6, 2013 marks the 48^th anniversary of the signing of the landmark Voting Rights Act.

IAM Mourns Former ADBR Robert ‘Bob’ R. Gutierrez

The IAM mourns the death of California District Lodge 725 Assistant Directing Business Representative Robert “Bob” R. Gutierrez, who passed away on July 12, 2013.

Senate Votes for Fully-Staffed NLRB

The U.S. Senate has confirmed all five National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) nominees, giving the country’s top governing body for labor disputes a full slate of nominees for the first time in a decade.

Forgery Charges Rattle Teamster Airline Raids

Allegations that organizers for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) forged hundreds of authorization cards in an effort to force an election among mechanics at American Airlines is shaping up to be a major issue in a separate election among mechanics at US Airways.

AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Arlene Holt Baker to Retire

After a career as labor activist that spanned more than four decades, AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Arlene Holt Baker has announced her retirement.

IAM Supports Legislation to Revive Small Airplane Industry

The IAM joins several aerospace industry trade associations in supporting the passage of the bipartisan Small Airplane Revitalization Act. The bill (S. 1072) would adopt more effective regulations for small airplanes, spur manufacturers’ investment and help put critical lifesaving equipment into existing planes.

IAM Wins Top Honors in 2013 ILCA Labor Media Awards

The Machinists Union won several top honors in the annual International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) Labor Media Awards contest, which honors the best in labor journalism.

GLR Steve Nickel Moves to Western Territory

IAM Western Territory General Vice President Gary Allen is pleased to welcome Grand Lodge Representative Steve Nickel to the Western Territory staff – effective August 1. Nickel is moving from the Midwest Territory to serve the membership of the southwestern region of the Western Territory.

District 751 Notches Aerospace Organizing Win

Workers at AIM Aerospace, Inc. in Sumner, WA, have voted to join the Machinists Union by a 3-to-2 margin.

Bankruptcy No Excuse to Gut Detroit Workers’ Pensions

The IAM and other labor groups stand in solidarity with Detroit city employees who have unjustly become scapegoats for the Motor City’s bankruptcy. The police officers, firefighters and other city workers who previously made deep concessions to keep the city afloat should not be subject to further cuts in wages or their pensions, which they have paid into and rightfully earned.

Washington DC ‘SAM’ Workers Achieve First IAM-NFFE Contract

Nearly four years after forming a union over strong resistance, 120 workers in Washington, DC known as “Downtown SAMs” have ratified their first contract and are now full members of the National Federation of Federal Employees-IAM.

Join the 2013 March on Washington

August 28, 2013 will mark the 50th anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, the backdrop to Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech.  

WWW Hosts Global Solidarity Youth Summit

The IAM’s William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education and Technology Center recently played host to 40 future labor leaders from 24 countries. As shown in a new Machinist News Network video, the young unionists came together to plant the seeds for future global solidarity as part of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Young Workers Summer School.

July IAM ‘Journal’ Now Available on the IAM App

In the July issue of the IAM Journal, the most diverse Executive Council in IAM history is sworn in, the August 28, 2013 March on Washington is fast approaching, A. Philip Randolph is profiled as the key organizer of the 1963 March on Washington, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Young Workers’ Summer School convenes at the William W. Winpisinger Center, and IAM Retirees at Raytheon win a battle for justice.

Wisconsin Machinists Win $850,000 Settlement

Local Lodge 1947 employees at Mercury Marine in Fond du lac, WI are celebrating an $850,000 settlement for wages lost when the boat engine manufacturer unilaterally changed “paid lunch” eligibility requirements.

IAM Contract Improves Pensions in Puerto Rico

Twenty-nine members of Local Lodge 2725 in San Juan, Puerto Rico unanimously ratified a new contract with Air Express International, which vastly improved members’ pension benefits.

Dropkick Murphys Turn Up the Volume for Organized Labor

Major music artists often shy away from putting their name out in front of a political cause, but not so with the Dropkick Murphys, a famous punk-rock band that hasn’t been bashful in their support of organized labor.

Machinists Union Urges Quick Confirmation of NLRB Nominees

In a letter to the U.S. Senate, the IAM is demanding the swift confirmation of President Obama’s full slate of nominees to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) struck a deal last week to confirm the president’s two replacement nominees – Nancy Schiffer, the general counsel at the AFL-CIO, and Kent Hirozawa, who currently serves as chief counsel to the NLRB chairman.

Congress Moves Closer to Eliminating 2014 Furloughs

With two furlough days already in the books for most Defense Department employees, the urgency of bringing an end to the senseless policy is stronger than ever. After immense pressure from federal employees and their unions, Congress is finally starting to heed the will of the people and address the furlough problem.

Mechanic Pensions on the Line in US Airways Election

It’s not often a group of workers can save their pensions and protect their seniority by the simple act of casting a ballot, but that’s exactly what’s happening right now as IAM-represented Mechanic and Related workers at US Airways vote in the current representation election.

Portland Members Vote to End Strike at Daimler Truck Plant

In a close vote, IAM members of Local 1005 at Daimler’s Swan Island Truck Plant in Portland, OR ratified new contract terms on July 22, after being on the strike lines since July 1. The new terms of the collective bargaining agreement include an increase of $1.55 per hour over a 40-month period.

Study Reveals Massive Job Loss in South Korea-U.S. Trade Deal

A new Economic Policy Institute study reveals the harsh reality of the “over-hyped” and job-killing Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) and warns of the further potential job loss the Trans-Pacific Partnership would inflict upon the American middle class.

Global Woodworkers Union Condemns Jeld-Wen Labor Violations

Facing a disgruntled workforce and a grassroots IAM organizing movement, management at window and door manufacturing company Jeld-Wen are resorting to further labor violations to suppress and intimidate its workforce.

Senate Deal Emerges to Fully Staff NLRB

President Obama will nominate two longtime labor lawyers to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), withdrawing two previously appointed candidates as part of a new deal to fully staff the NLRB and avert what is known as the “nuclear option” – a plan by Senate Democrats to eliminate filibusters of presidential nominations in the future.

Oregon Local 1005 Members Hold Strike Line, Negotiations Continue

With the strike at the Daimler Trucks North America plant in Portland, OR going on its third week, members of IAM Local Lodge 1005 continue to hold the picket line as talks between the IAM and company representatives resume.

Support Alabama Shipyard Workers

After years of enduring unfair works rules, disrespect and huge safety issues, workers at Austal Shipbuilding in Mobile, AL, have launched an organizing campaign to win union representation with the Mobile Metal Trades Council, of which the IAM is a part.

Midwest Territory Mourns Great IAM Leader

Former IAM District 9 Directing Business Representative and true trade unionist James M. Bagwell of Florissant, MO, passed away in late June at the age of 79.

Plan Now for 2013 Retirees Conference

Are you ready to have fun with IAM Brothers and Sisters and safeguard hard-won union benefits?  If so, join us for the 2013 Retirees Conference at Bally’s Las Vegas Hotel.

IAM Retirees at Raytheon Win $2.5 Million in Back Pay

IAM Local 933 retirees at Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, AZ are celebrating their long battle for justice after finally receiving retirement funds totaling nearly $2.5 million.

Machinists Prevail in Negotiations with City of Memphis

Members of IAM Local 3 were able to erase deep cuts suffered two years ago in long, hard-fought negotiations in Memphis, TN.  The 100 IAM members are auto body repairer/mechanics, master mechanics, helicopter mechanics, master welder/mechanics, fire hydrant repairers and other workers.

IAM Retiree Hijacks Anti-Social Security Video Contest

The IAM salutes District 751 retiree Ron McGaha, the Washington State and Puget Sound Chapters of the Alliance for Retired Americans, and the Social Security Works coalition for winning a right-wing video contest intended on dismantling Social Security.

Transatlantic Trade Pact: A Chance to Get it Right

With more than 100,000 members working in industries directly impacted by global trade agreements, the IAM is calling on negotiators for the pending Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) to make job creation and maintenance the major objective in their discussions.

Photo Contest Deadline Extended to July 26, 2013

There’s still time to enter the 2013 IAM Photo Contest. The new deadline is now Friday, July 26, 2013. For the 2013 Photo Contest, photos must be taken of and by members in good standing, un-posed and working at their job (and conforming to all safety standards).

IAM Videos Salute Lobster Fishing, Military Service

Two new videos on the Machinists News Network highlight the hard work and community service of our brothers and sisters of IAM District Lodge 4 in Maine.

Coalitions Support Fair Pay for Federal Workers

Hundreds of federally-contracted low-wage workers, mobilized by the new labor coalition Good Jobs Nation, are joining together in a call for decent living wages and speaking out against alleged pay theft by federal contractors.

Labor Rejects ‘Fake’ Bangladesh Factory Safety Plan

Labor and workers’ rights groups are protesting the most recent attempt by Wal-Mart, Gap and 15 other American retailers to skirt meaningful safety reforms in the Bangladeshi garment industry. The mega-retailers’ plan is nonbinding, not transparent and didn’t consult factory workers or labor groups.

Retired GVP Michalski Honored by Congress

Recently-retired IAM Headquarters General Vice President Rich Michalski has been publicly recognized by two members of Congress for his long career of service to the IAM, the labor movement and working families. Michalski became a familiar face in the halls of Congress during his 45-year career with the IAM, promoting legislation that preserved the American Dream and vigorously opposing bills that hurt IAM members.

IAM Members Among Union Plus Scholarship Winners

Union Plus has awarded $2,000 in scholarships to two winners representing the IAM in the 2013 Union Plus Scholarship Program.

Labor Stands Up to GOP Crusade Against Workers’ Rights

Despite relentless Republican attacks, House Democrats and labor advocates are not giving up on the fight to provide working Americans with a fully-functioning National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Missouri Governor Vetoes Union-Busting Bill

Missouri Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon has vetoed a bill that would have forced public unions to seek annual written permission before collecting dues from employees. Missouri’s GOP-led legislature passed the bill in an effort to restrict the collective bargaining rights of state workers.

IAM Video Highlights 2013 Paris Air Show

A new video on the Machinists News Network showcases labor’s presence at the 2013 Paris Airshow as an IAM delegation led by members of the Executive Council stood in solidarity with unions from across the world.

Machinists Members Excel in IAM/National Labor College Degree Program

As many children are celebrating the end of school for the summer, Machinists members are embarking on a new chapter in their lives.  For one group, it is the beginning of hard work to achieve a long-awaited dream of a college education.  For another, it is the culmination of a journey that ended with a Bachelor’s Degree through the IAM/National Labor College (NLC) Partnership.

IAM Supports U.S. Action on Bangladesh

The IAM is supporting the U.S. government’s decision to suspend Bangladesh’s trade benefits granted under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).  The IAM believes that countries who benefit from preferential trade programs must comply with internationally recognized labor rights, specifically the right to non-lethal workplaces and the right to form unions.

New IAM Executive Council Makes History, Takes Oath of Office

The most diverse Executive Council in the 125-year history of the IAM took their oaths of office Monday and officially assumed positions for their new terms at a ceremony at IAM Headquarters in Upper Marlboro, MD.

IAM Mourns Arizona Wildfire Heroes

The IAM is mourning the 19 firefighters killed Sunday while fighting a wildfire raging through central Arizona, northwest of Phoenix. It was the deadliest day for American firefighters since the 9/11 attacks.

California Naval Base Workers Switch to IAM

Election results speak for themselves, and few elections have been more eloquent than the recent vote by workers at Lemoore Naval Air Station (NAS) in Southern California. In a June 19 contest that pitted the IAM against the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), the IAM received a decisive 158 of 181 votes cast, with the employer receiving six votes and the Teamsters a mere 17 votes.

June ‘IAM Journal’ Now Available

The June 'IAM Journal" is now ready to be downloaded or viewed online.

IAM 2013 Scholarship Winners Announced

The 2013 IAM Scholarship competition has concluded and the winners have been announced.

Shop Union-Made this July 4

Whether you’re hosting the barbeque or bringing snacks to watch the fireworks, make this 4th of July a union-made celebration.

Historic Changes Mark IAM Installation Ceremony

The July 1 Installation Ceremony is the formal start of new four-year terms for the recently-elected IAM Executive Council, which includes the International President, General Secretary-Treasurer and nine General Vice Presidents. The ceremony, held at IAM Headquarters, also included the swearing-in of five members of the IAM Law Committee, three delegates to the AFL-CIO and one delegate to the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC).

IAM Mourns Former Canadian Communications Director Neville Hamilton

Former IAM Canadian Director of Communications Neville Hamilton passed away on June 27, 2013, at the age of 74.

High Court Decision Sparks Massive Voter Disenfranchisement

Less than 48 hours after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, six Republican-led states are moving forward with laws proven to have adverse effects on the abilities of minorities, young people, the elderly and the poor to exercise their right to vote.

Support Striking Belshaw Adamatic Workers

It’s day 95 on the picket line for members of IAM Local Lodge 79 on strike against Belshaw Adamatic, an international bakery equipment maker based in Auburn, WA.

IAM Retiree Hits Airwaves to Push Social Security Expansion

In a Progressive Leaders Forum that aired on Sirius XM 127’s “The Agenda” radio show, IAM Retiree Diane Fleming joined Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) and other Social Security advocates to discuss new ways to strengthen the country’s social safety net.

Who’s the Cutest Union Pet of Them All?

Submit your pet's photo for a chance to win one of five grand prizes in the Union Plus Cutest Pet photo contest.

Supreme Court Strikes Down Key Provision of 1965 Voting Rights Act

The U.S. Supreme Court has struck down a key section of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965.

IAM President Lauds Czech Metalworkers’ Federation

Speaking in Prague as the first international union president from North America to address the Czech Metalworkers' Federation (OS KOVO), IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger praised the federation’s successful effort to restore independent trade unionism to the Czech Republic. OS KOVO is the largest trade union federation in the Czech Republic and represents more than 200,000 workers at 1,100 companies in the metalworking industry.

Chrysler Kills Pensions for 8,000 Salaried Employees

Chrysler recently announced it will be freezing pension plans for salaried workers, further expanding the trend once reserved for employers claiming extreme financial distress.

Supreme Court to Hear Arguments in NLRB Recess Appointments Case

The Supreme Court has announced they will consider a case against President Obama’s recess appointments to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The ruling, which is expected to be handed down sometime this fall, will hinge on the Court’s interpretation of a president’s power to make recess appointments, which both Republican and Democratic administrations have historically used to fill vacancies while the Senate is out of session.

Fair Labor Standards Act Marks 75 Years

Seventy-five years ago today, with the American economy in the midst of the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) into law. The landmark bill outlawed child labor, established the 40-hour work week, guaranteed overtime pay and instituted a national minimum wage. Opponents said it would stifle the economy and infringe on our freedoms, but the FLSA was an economic and moral priority for Roosevelt and his allies.

District 751 President Pledges $1,000 to Striking Belshaw Employees

IAM District Lodge 751 of Seattle showed their solidarity to striking IAM members at Belshaw Adamatic Bakery Group by donating $1,000 to the IAM strike fund. The 63 Belshaw employees, who are members of Local Lodge 79, have been walking the picket line at the Auburn, WA plant since March 24.

Report Finds MLK’s Dream Not Yet Realized

August 28 will mark the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, the setting of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. In commemoration of this anniversary, the Economic Policy Institute (EPI) has launched a new project, The Unfinished March that assesses the unmet goals of the march.

GOP Lawmakers Preemptively Strike Paid Sick Leave Laws

GOP lawmakers around the country have embarked on a campaign to ban all bills requiring mandatory paid sick leave for all workers.

Machinists Flag Reaches South Pole

IAM Local Lodge 99 member Spencer Smirl of Calgary, Alberta, Canada has taken the IAM flag to the ends of the earth, literally.

Working America Launches New Website to Connect Employees to Unions

A new website run by labor-rights group Working America is making it easier than ever for employees from almost any industry to organize and improve their workplaces. FixMyJob.com offers an interactive online tutorial for workers who are “feeling overworked, underpaid, unsafe, or disrespected by [their] boss.”

GST Roach Addresses SUNY Labor Studies Graduates

“Strive to become leaders,” said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach Jr., to the SUNY Empire State College Harry Van Arsdale Jr. Center for Labor Studies graduating class of 2013. Hundreds gathered as Roach delivered the commencement speech to just over a hundred of his alma mater’s labor graduates in New York City.

Rep. John Lewis Continues Fight for Voting Rights

John Lewis has been fighting for voting rights for over half a century. A fractured skull and scars from beatings at the hands of police and white segregationists in the 1960s prove it.

Pat Lehman Receives Humanitarian Award

Political activist and retired 41-year IAM member Pat Lehman of Wichita, KS is the recipient of the National Federation of Democratic Women’s 2013 Humanitarian Award. Lehman, a former Grand Lodge Representative who retired in 2007, was recognized at the organization’s annual conference on Saturday, June 14 in Charleston, WV.

Photo Contest Deadline Extended to July 5, 2013

The new deadline to enter the 2013 IAM Photo Contest is now Friday, July 5, 2013. For the 2013 Photo Contest, photos must be taken of and by members in good standing, un-posed and working at their job (and conforming to all safety standards).

Join the International Day of Action to End Deathtraps

Labor unions, activists and students have declared Saturday, June 29, 2013, an International Day of Action to End Deathtraps.

IAM Requests Release From NMB for US Airways Fleet

The IAM formally requested that the National Mediation Board (NMB) release its US Airways Fleet Service members from further mediated contract negotiations and initiate a 30-day countdown to a strike.

Buffenbarger Names Key Transportation Staff

International President Tom Buffenbarger announced Grand Lodge Representative Ira Levy will replace retiring Airline Coordinator Tom Brickner effective August 1, 2013.

Maine Lobstermen Score Victory; Poised for Another

IAM District Lodge 4 members recently joined fellow lobstermen in Maine to help defeat a bill thinly guised as a means to give exemptions for incidentally caught lobsters. LD 1549 attempted to provide protection for fishermen using a process called “dragging” – a practice Maine lobstermen vehemently oppose.

IAM Six Flags Mechanics End California Lockout

IAM Local 1546 Ride Mechanics at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo, CA are back at work after ending their strike and overwhelmingly accepting a new contract with park management. After being locked out since May 2, the agreement provides the 24 ride mechanics with more frequent and higher quality safety training.

IAM Organizing Grows in Caribbean

The IAM Southern Territory is continuing its organizing success in the U.S. Virgin Islands. In two separate elections in a 32-day period, Local Lodge 340 has added all the bargaining unit employees at Waste Management on the islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. Johns.

Give the Gift of Union-Made This Father’s Day

Celebrate your dad in solidarity style this Father's Day, Sunday, June 16, 2013, by getting him a gift that sports the union label.

Global Union IndustriALL Backs Belshaw Bakery Strikers

One of the world’s largest global union federations, IndustriALL, is joining the fight being waged by 60 IAM Local 79 members who have been on strike against Belshaw Adamatic Bakery Group in Auburn, WA since March 24.

IAM Mourns International Labor Leader Marcello Malentacchi

Marcello Malentacchi, a 20-year General Secretary of the International Metalworkers’ Federation (IMF) and a close friend of the IAM, passed away on May 24 at the age of 66. Malentacchi died of natural causes while cycling near his birthplace in Tuscany, Italy.

Illinois Local 660 Prepares for Global Brass Negotiations

In preparation for negotiations with metal fabricator and distributor Global Brass and Copper (GBC), IAM District 9, Local Lodge 660 members from East Alton, IL, attended the Negotiation Preparation for Bargaining Committees class at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Center.

Falconer Appointed Special Representative

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed Canadian Education Representative Gord Falconer to the position of Special Representative.

IAM Making Organizing Inroads at Canadian Auto Dealers

Two recent organizing victories at Canadian auto dealerships have the IAM excited about the future of union representation in the industry.

Woman Making 300-Mile Trip in Wheelchair for GDA

The wife of a District Lodge 751 member is literally going to great lengths to raise money for Guide Dogs of America (GDA).

June 10 Marks Equal Pay Act’s 50th Anniversary

The IAM joins labor, women’s groups and a slew of advocates in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Equal Pay Act, a bill that made it illegal for an employer to pay a woman and a man different pay for the same work.

NMB Authorizes Election at US Airways

The National Mediation Board (NMB), an agency of the federal government, today announced that a representation election will be conducted for the Mechanic and Related class and craft at US Airways.

Flight Attendants Succeed in Keeping Knives Off Planes

The 90,000-strong Coalition of Flight Attendant Unions is celebrating the success of its campaign to keep knives off planes and commending the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for holding the line against weapons on flights.

New 125th Anniversary Videos Available

The Machinists News Network has released two videos on the IAM’s 2013 National Staff Conference and 125-year anniversary march and rally in Atlanta.

Sign Petition, Support Striking Wal-Mart Workers

Hundreds of Wal-Mart workers in 12 U.S. cities have walked off their jobs in the longest strike in the mega retailer’s history.

Chinese Poultry Plant Fire Kills At Least 120

Scrutiny of working conditions in Asia continues to mount as the latest in a string of disasters now includes a fire at a Chinese poultry processing plan that killed at least 120 people. The region has become infamous for its cheap labor and working conditions which are often deplorable, if not deadly.

‘Atlanta’s Hometown Union’ Makes Triumphant Return to the South

The 2013 IAM Staff Conference closed with a rousing march to the Georgia State House and a rededication of Machinists Union founder Tom Talbot’s statue in Atlanta’s historic Grant Park. The three-day conference brought hundreds of IAM staff members back to the union’s birthplace, where 19 Machinists secretly gathered in a locomotive pit to establish the IAM 125 years ago.

IAM Supports 42nd International CBTU Convention

Diane Babineaux, Chief of Staff to the IAM International President, led a delegation of IAM members to the 42^nd International Convention of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) in Orlando.

Spanish Leadership Working Group Updates WWW Curriculum

Members from the U.S. and Canada, representing many Latin American countries including Puerto Rico, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, and the Dominican Republic, make up the Spanish Leadership Working Group (SLWG), which met at the William W. Winpisinger (WWW) Education Center in Hollywood, MD. The diverse group has been tasked with reviewing, revising, and updating the curriculum and related material for WWW Spanish Leadership programs – Spanish Leadership I, II, and Advanced.

Grupo de Instructores de Liderazgo en Español Evalúan y Revisan el Plan de Estudios en el Centro Winpisinger

Miembros de los EE.UU. y Canadá, que representa a muchos países de América Latina, incluyendo Puerto Rico, México, Argentina, Chile y la República Dominicana, conforman el grupo de liderazgo en español (SLWG), que se reunió en el Centro William W. Winpisinger en Hollywood, MD. El diverso grupo se ha encargado de la revisión, y actualización del plan de estudios y material relacionado con los programas de liderazgo en español – Liderazgo en español I, II y Avanzado.

IAM Joins New Connecticut Manufacturing Initiative

The IAM has joined newly-elected U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT), Gov. Dannel Malloy (D-CT), local business leaders and others in launching a new manufacturing initiative in Connecticut.

Photo and Newsletter/Website Contest Deadline Extended to June 14

The new deadline to enter the 2013 IAM Newsletter and Website Contest and the 2013 IAM Photo Contest is now Friday, June 14, 2013.

Machinists Union Comes Home to Atlanta for 125th Anniversary

The IAM is celebrating its 125th birthday in Atlanta, the city of the union’s founding, with the opening of the 2013 IAM National Staff Conference. Speakers commemorated the progress of a union that has grown from 19 machinists secretly meeting in an Atlanta locomotive pit in 1888 to an international organization of 700,000 active and retired members the IAM boasts today.

GVP Michalski Helps Launch Manufacturing Initiative at Goodwin College

IAM Headquarters General Vice President Rich Michalski joined Congressman John Larson (D-CT), Connecticut Governor Dan Malloy and Goodwin College President Mark Scheinberg in launching a new certification program.

Pratt & Whitney Announces $1 Billion Pentagon Deal

Aerospace manufacturer Pratt & Whitney has agreed to a $1 billion agreement with the Pentagon for a fifth series of F-35 fighter jet engines. The deal means job security for thousands of IAM members at the company, a unit of United Technologies Corp.

New IAM Video Profiles ‘The American Dream’

A new video on the Machinists News Network showcases the real meaning of living the “American Dream.” To the five IAM members profiled, the real American Dream is having an IAM contract.

May ‘IAM Journal’ Now Available

The IAM Journal is now available to download – via the free IAM app – on an iPhone, iPad, Android tablet, Android phone or Kindle Fire by clicking here and following the appropriate link.

IAM Blasts Teamster Raid at American Airlines

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) today announced that it has filed with the National Mediation Board (NMB) a request for an election against the Transport Workers Union (TWU) to represent the Mechanic and Related employees at American Airlines.

New 2013 IAM Legislative Conference Videos Available

The Machinists News Network released two new videos providing wrap-ups of the 2013 IAM Legislative Conference in Washington, DC.

New CBTU President Charts ‘Path to Building Future’

The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) held its 42nd International Convention in Orlando.

Machinists in Canada Ratify Contract with Ludachris Hats

Members of IAM Local Lodge 1975, St. Thomas, ON, Canada, have ratified a new collective agreement with Ludachris Hats.

Texas Bus Drivers Unanimously Approve Contract

A group of 92 Tornado Bus Company drivers stood in solidarity to unanimously ratify an agreement that will pay them at the top wage scale per route and provide paid vacation, sick days and holidays. IAM members at the Texas-based company will also receive meal allowances, rest periods, health insurance and a 401k.

Midwest Territory Raffles $14,999 John Deere Equipment

A voucher worth $14,999 toward the purchase of a John Deere vehicle is the next raffle prize to raise money for the 2016 Grand Lodge Convention to be held in Chicago. John Deere Horicon Works in Horicon, WI agreed to let the IAM’s Midwest Territory raffle the voucher, which can be used at a local John Deere dealer toward the purchase of a John Deere Gator Utility Vehicle or Select Series/Signature Riding Lawn Equipment.  

Oklahoma Members Survive Killer Tornado

IAM members in the nation’s midsection are no strangers to the wrath of Mother Nature; from hurricanes on the Gulf Coast to twisters in the nation’s most active “Tornado Alley.”

IAM Urges Congress to Confirm NLRB Appointees

The IAM is encouraging members of Congress to sign a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell for the swift consideration of President Obama’s appointments to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The letter, being circulated by Reps. Linda Sanchez (D-CA) and Joe Courtney (D-CT), criticizes McConnell (R-KY) and the GOP for their “ideological obstruction” to the NLRB, which is “denying hardworking Americans the crucial worker protections that the NLRB provides.”

154 California Workers Vote for IAM Representation

A group of 154 workers employed by Doncasters Group Ltd. in Chula Vista, CA have voted decisively to be represented by IAM District Lodge 947. The workers manufacture precision components and assemblies for aerospace, automotive and various other industries.

GDA Hosting Online Auction through June 5

The 2013 Guide Dogs of America (GDA) Online Silent Auction is now open. The event will run to June 5, 2013.

House Democrats Join IAM in Urging Confirmation of Perez Labor Nomination

A group of 139 House Democrats are urging the quick confirmation of Labor Secretary Nominee Thomas Perez. The letter to Senate leadership lauded Perez’s “distinguished record of accomplishments and experience from his career in public service at the local, state and federal levels.

IAM Responds to Oklahoma Tornado Tragedy

The IAM is sending thoughts, prayers and support to the victims of a massive tornado that tore through an Oklahoma City suburb Monday afternoon, turning entire neighborhoods into rubble and destroying two elementary schools and a hospital. Officials say at least 24 people lost their lives in the storm, which left a path of destruction a mile wide and 20 miles long in Moore, OK.

Will GOP Lawmakers Block Federal Aid to Oklahoma?

The IAM hopes Oklahoma lawmakers will do their part to help the tornado stricken area in their state to recover. Sens. Tom Coburn and Jim Inhofe, both Republicans, have been outspoken critics of federal disaster relief funding for other parts of the country in the past.

WWW Center Hosts AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurers’ Conference

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger welcomed more than 30 Secretary-Treasurers from AFL-CIO-affiliated unions to the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center recently for a meeting that included an analysis of pension and health care issues as well as presentations on the myriad of federal compliance requirements.

Winpisinger Bargaining Prep Class Pays Off for M1 Employees

IAM members at M1 Support Services have overwhelmingly ratified a three-year collective bargaining agreement that includes a two percent general wage increase beginning July 2013 and a three percent bump in both 2014 and 2015. The deal also raises the employer pension contribution from $2.45 per hour to $3.20 per hour.

Workers Suffer as GOP Blocks NLRB Nominations

Everyday Americans are being hurt by the political game of disarming the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), a recent AFL-CIO video interview with illegally-fired pressman Marcus Hedger shows.

IAM Mourns District 751 Activist Jerry Dargitz

District 751 lost a long-time union activist with the passing of Grand Lodge Rep/Organizer Jerry Dargitz on April 7.

Pelosi Brings Rousing Close to 2013 IAM Legislative Conference

House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi told IAM members on the final day of the 2013 Legislative Conference that “the most important thing we can do for our families and our economy is to create jobs.”

NASA Hitches $70 Million Per Seat Ride to Space with Russia

Thanks to a 2011 move by the Obama Administration to shut down and privatize NASA’s historic and admired shuttle program, the U.S. space agency will now be paying $424 million to hitch a ride to space with Russia. That’s $70.6 million per seat.

Spanish Leadership Recognized for Language-Based Curriculum

The first 2013 Spanish Leadership I Program was held last week at the William W. Winpisinger Center in Hollywood, MD.

Los programas de Liderazgo en W-3 furon ampliamente reconocidos por su plan de estudios basados en Español

El primer programa de Liderazgo I en Español del 2013 se celebró la semana pasada en el Centro William W. Winpisinger.

Southern Territory Scores Virgin Island Win

The IAM presence on the U.S. Virgin Islands continues to grow, as Local Lodge 340 overwhelmingly won an election for 95 workers at Waste Management Authority on the three islands, St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. Johns.

IAM Applauds Las Vegas Taxi Drivers 60-Day Strike Win

The IAM congratulates the taxi drivers of the Industrial, Technical and Professional Employees Union (ITPEU)/OPEIU Local 4873 who won their 60-day strike at Yellow Checker Star Transportation (YCS) in Las Vegas, NV.

IAM and TWU to Jointly Represent 30,000 at American Airlines

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) today announced a partnership to jointly represent nearly 30,000 ground workers at the “new” American Airlines following the merger of American Airlines and US Airways.  

IAM Activists Gather for 2013 Legislative Conference

Hundreds of IAM members are making their voices heard in Washington D.C., this week, talking to elected officials on Capitol Hill and listening to industry leaders and politicians at the 2013 IAM Legislative Conference.

Boston IAM Members Honored for Bravery Under Fire

Three members of Local 264 in Boston, MA were honored recently for their bravery and quick thinking in the immediate aftermath of the April 15 bombings at the Boston Marathon.

Bangladesh Factory Deaths Prompt Inspection Accord

IAM President Tom Buffenbarger hailed the recently announced agreements with retailers H&M and Inditex to create a safety inspection system for clothing suppliers in Bangladesh.

IAM Joins Farmworker Protest at Reynolds American

Members of the IAM joined with the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) in a 125-person march on Reynolds American’s shareholder meeting in Winston-Salem, NC, to demand justice for tobacco farm workers.

IAM Cites Flaws in TVA Privatization Proposal

The IAM joins Republican and Democratic lawmakers in opposing a fiscal 2014 budget proposal to sell the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federally-owned power agency, to a private company.

Teamster Raid Endangers US Airways Mechanics' Pensions

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) requested the National Mediation Board (NMB) hold a union representation election for Mechanic and Related employees at US Airways.

Another Bangladesh Factory Fire Kills Eight

Even as the death toll nears 1,000 in the April 24 collapse of a Bangladesh factory, tragedy struck the country again Thursday when eight garment workers were killed in a clothing factory fire. Bangladeshi officials say they don’t yet know the cause of the fire, which occurred overnight on the lower levels of an 11-story garment factory.

Court: Workers’ Rights Not Welcome in Workplace

The D.C. Circuit Court ruled Tuesday that requiring businesses to post a notice of workers’ rights to organize violates the employers’ right to free speech.

Flight Attendants Continue ‘No-Knives’ Push

Lawyers for nine organizations representing 400,000 aviation professionals, passengers and law enforcement officers filed a legal petition this week with Transportation Security Administrator John Pistole and copied to Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano seeking to rescind plans to allow knives in the aircraft cabins for the first time since 9/11.

GOP: No Unemployment Figures, No Unemployment

Republicans have finally come up with a way to end unemployment: stop counting it.

Connecticut Local 743 Approves New Contract

Members of Local 743 in Windsor Locks, CT, have voted overwhelmingly to approve a new three-year contract with aerospace manufacturer UTC Aerospace Systems, formerly known as Hamilton Sundstrand Corp.

GOP Continues March to End 40-Hour Workweek

Just two days after coming back from vacation, House Republicans are wasting no time pushing legislation that would hurt working families.

Lockout of Six Flags Ride Mechanics Threatens Patrons

Less than 24 hours after ride mechanics represented by the IAM were locked out at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, a popular ride at the Vallejo, CA, park, broke down, putting the safety of patrons at risk.

Mark Your Calendars for a GDA Weekend in Las Vegas

The Guide Dogs of America will be holding their 33rd annual William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet on Nov. 23, 2013, at Bally’s Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The fundraiser will commemorate the 65th anniversary of the charity organization which, through a partnership with the IAM, provides guide dogs to thousands of people free of charge.

May 5 Marks 125th Anniversary of IAM

Sunday, May 5, 2013 marks the 125th anniversary of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. On this day in 1888, 19 machinists met secretly in a locomotive pit in Atlanta, GA, declaring themselves “The Order of United Machinist and Mechanical Engineers.”

Immigration Bill Would Offer Pathway to Citizenship for Millions

Union members joined immigrant families and advocates for immigration reform at a rally in Washington, DC, last month, calling for a sensible solution toward naturalizing approximately 11 million undocumented Americans.

Machinists Praise Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx DOT Nomination

The IAM welcomes President Obama’s nomination of Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx as head of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Make Plans to Attend 2013 IAM Automotive Conference

The 2013 IAM Automotive Conference is scheduled for Oct. 1 to 4, 2013, at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Automotive Coordinator Boysen Anderson will chair the conference, which will focus on new approaches to expanding IAM automotive membership in North America.

Earned Pension Benefits Deserve Presidential Protection

In a letter to President Barack Obama, IAM President Tom Buffenbarger urged the president to help prevent deep cuts to working Americans’ hard-earned pension benefits.

IAM Remembers Fallen Members on Workers’ Memorial Day

With the workplace tragedies of West, Texas and Bangladesh still fresh in the news, IAM members were reminded of losses closer to home during the annual Workers’ Memorial Day gathering at the William W. Winpisinger Center in Hollywood, MD.

April ‘IAM Journal’ Now Available

IAM: U.S. Export Policy Must Protect U.S. Jobs

At a hearing before the House Foreign Affairs Committee to weigh proposed changes to U.S. export policies, senior Democratic member Brad Sherman (CA) cited a March 19 letter from IAM President Tom Buffenbarger that raised concerns about outsourcing, technology transfers and the potential impact on domestic employment.

All the Lipstick in the World…

Two Republican-backed bills with deceiving titles are making their way through Congress, and both threaten long-standing workers’ rights and the balance of power in the workplace.

IAM Mourns 62-Year Member Capobianco

Longtime IAM Representative and labor activist John Capobianco, Sr., passed away at home on April 22. He was the retired Directing Business Representative (DBR) of District 170 (formerly District 64) and a lifetime member who initiated into the IAM in 1951.

Wheelchair Ramps: Union-made in the USA

The Local 1943 Community Services Committee in Middletown, OH, is reviving a nearly 70-year-old tradition of Founder’s Day, an annual event marked by a whirlwind of volunteer activity aimed at helping members of the Middletown community.

Scores Killed in Latest Bangladesh Factory Collapse

Tragedy has again claimed the lives of scores of low-income textile workers in Bangladesh’s garment district.

Wisconsin Members Win New HPWO Agreement at Trane Company

Trane Company celebrated its 100th anniversary this week, and along with IAM Locals 21 and 1115 of District 66, signed a new High Performance Work Organization (HPWO) agreement in La Crosse, WI.

FAA Cutbacks Threaten Major Airline Delays

Mandatory budget cuts at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) caused by sequestration could cause more than 6,700 flight delays per day at 13 of the nation’s biggest airports starting this week. Affected airports include JFK, LaGuardia and Newark in the New York area; Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco in California; O'Hare and Midway in Chicago; Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Florida; Atlanta; Philadelphia and Charlotte.

IAM Mourns 50-year Member James R. ‘Spanky’ Yungkans

The IAM mourns the death of Phoenix Local 519 Recording Secretary and Office Manager James R. “Spanky” Yungkans, who passed away on March 7, 2013.

TSA Delays Decision to Allow Knives on Planes

In the face of a huge backlash from Flight Attendants, nearly every other stakeholder in aviation and the public, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today postponed its plan to allow knives onboard U.S. flights starting Thursday, April 25. The 90,000-member Flight Attendants Union Coalition, however, which has opposed the TSA's ill-advised plan from the start, remains resolute: No Knives on Planes Ever Again.

AFL-CIO Site Reveals Runaway CEO Pay

Did you know that the CEOs of the “Campaign to Fix the Debt” – the corporate front group that wants to cut Social Security and Medicare and lower corporate taxes – have parked more than $418 billion of untaxed corporate profits overseas? Overall it is estimated that U.S. corporations have as much as $1.9 trillion sheltered overseas. That would make a nice down payment on fixing the debt.

Join the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance for Free

As a charter union of the Union Sportmen’s Alliance, IAM members are eligible to join the hunting, fishing and gaming organization for free. Joining the Alliance entitles members to quarterly issues of the Union Sportsmen’s Journal (by mail or online), a one-year MyTopo.com online mapping subscription, an e-newsletter with tips and special offers, discounts on outdoor gear and services and more. Click here to sign up today.

Report: Young Workers ‘Stuck’ in Long-term Jobs Crisis

A new Demos report finds that young workers are no better off than they were a year ago and are continuing to endure a jobs crisis even as the economy recovers.

Proposed Bill Would End 40-Hour Work Week

House Republicans have introduced a bill that would end the 40-hour work week, dismantling an important component of the Federal Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 and hurting middle-class families across the country.

Western Territory GVP Gary Allen Walks Picket Line with Striking Members at Belshaw

In their last, best, and final offer company representatives made no attempts to move toward wage and benefit improvements their employees need despite IAM proposals that would save Belshaw more than $20,000 per month by moving into a medical plan that maintained the same level of benefits at a lower cost to the company.

Workers' Memorial Day Set for April 28

Although decades of struggle by workers and their unions have resulted in significant improvements in working conditions, the toll of workplace injuries, illnesses and deaths remains enormous.

The Fight Against Knives in the Sky Continues

IAM members remain steadfast in their fight against a dangerous Transportation Security Administration (TSA) decision to allow knives on planes.

2013 Photo and Newsletter Contest Deadline is May 10, 2013

Friday, May 10, 2013, is the deadline to enter the 2013 IAM Newsletter and Website Contest and the 2013 IAM Photo Contest.

The Lessons of Boston: Mourn the Victims, Salute the Heroes

“While we mourn for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombings, we are also inspired by the heroic efforts of first responders who instinctively ran toward the chaos and danger instead of away from it. These public service employees – more accurately called heroes – put their lives on the line every single day of the year,” said IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger.

IAM Editorial: The U.S. Air Force’s Billion Dollar Mistake

In an op-ed published today in Roll Call, IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger calls on the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and Air Force to reconsider their decision to award a contract worth billions of dollars to a foreign-owned company.

Anchorage Unions Aim to Overturn New Anti-Union Bill

Labor activists in Anchorage, Alaska are gearing up to overturn a new labor ordinance that prevents public-sector unions from striking and using binding arbitration. Sponsors filed an application to launch a petition drive for a referendum to strike down the new law sponsored by Republican mayor Dan Sullivan.

Texas Machinists and LCLAA Salute Cesar Chavez Legacy

Texas Machinists and the Tarrant County Chapter of LCLAA (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement) once again joined the annual Cesar Chavez March for Education, honoring the life and work of Chavez. About 200 marchers marched through downtown Fort Worth, TX, to the Trinity River Campus of Tarrant County College

President’s Budget Proposal Invests in America, But Threatens Social Security

President Obama’s proposed budget contains important benefits to create jobs, invest in infrastructure and manufacturing and help America’s middle class, but could also change the way Social Security benefits are calculated and dramatically reduce payouts. It also has a provision to increase taxes on private planes which affects IAM members in a sector of the aerospace industry that is just beginning to show signs of recovery from the recession.

Solomon and de la Fuente to Lead Legislative and Political Department

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has announced that Assistant Legislative and Political Action Department Directors Hasan Solomon and Rick de la Fuente will lead the Legislative and Politics Department as co-directors.

Labor Joins Immigrants in Call for Path to Citizenship

IAM members joined a rally of more than 100,000 immigrant families and their supporters to send a simple message to Congress on Wednesday: the time for immigration reform is now. The Rally for Citizenship brought together immigrants and labor, civil rights, political and religious leaders to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol to demand a path to citizenship for more than 11 million undocumented Americans.

Enroll Now for IAM/National Labor College Port of Entry Week

If you’ve been thinking about completing your degree, now is the time to get started! The IAM has partnered with the National Labor College (NLC) to help IAM members earn a college degree. One of the requirements is an initial Port of Entry Week which IAM members can complete at the William W. Winpsinger Education and Technology Center.

Ohio Machinist to Challenge Boehner for House Seat

An IAM member of Local 1943 in Middletown, OH, is challenging Republican House Speaker John Boehner for his congressional seat.  

Tennessee Strike Concludes with Improved Contract

More than 150 members of Local 1441 in Springfield, TN, returned to work at Unarco Material Handling with an improved contract after a five-day strike.

Machinists March in Memphis for MLK Remembrance

Members of the Machinists Union joined with members of the American Federation of State, City and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union and over 1,000 marchers in Memphis, TN, to mark the 45th anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. The march passed by the Loraine Motel, where the assassination occurred and traveled down historic Beale Street in downtown Memphis.

GOP Bill Aims to Shut Down NLRB

A Republican congressman has introduced a bill that would shut down the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), stripping the country’s top labor agency of its power to investigate labor abuses and enforce rulings. Rep. Phil Roe (R-TN), who introduced the deceptively-titled “Preventing Greater Uncertainty in Labor Management Relations Act” (H.R. 1120), is making the claim that the board has lost its legitimacy since President Obama made three recess appointments to it in February

Equal Pay Day Recognized, Women Mobilize for Fair Pay

Politicians and women’s advocacy groups have recognized April 9 as Equal Pay Day – marking how far into 2013 a woman would have to continue working to match what men earned in 2012.

Members Urged to ‘Like’ Jeld-Wen Organizing Campaign

In the wake of last year’s successful campaign to organize workers at IKEA’s U.S. facilities, the IAM is launching another international campaign, this time to extend the benefits of IAM membership to employees at the JELD-WEN (JW) Corporation. JW is the world’s third-largest manufacturer of doors and windows with operations in 21 countries and every IAM Territory.

IAM Seeks New Model for U.S. – E.U. Trade Agreement

“The upcoming U.S.-E.U. trade negotiations represent an opportunity for a 21st Century trade agreement that puts people first, but only if the agreement is based on a new model -- not the NAFTA-style agreements of the past, including KORUS, Peru and Colombia, which have failed workers.” said IAM President Tom Buffenbarger.

Reserve Now for 2013 IAM Legislative Conference

The 2013 IAM Legislative Conference is set for May 13-16 at the Hyatt Regency in Washington, DC. You can reserve rooms by calling the Hyatt Regency directly at 202-737-1234. The cut-off date for special room rates is April 8.

CLUW Members: Share Your Experiences for Equal Pay Day

What does equal pay mean to you? Have you had an experience with gender discrimination? The Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) is taking photo and quote (one paragraph please) submissions to publish online for Equal Pay Day, held Tuesday, April 9 – a date symbolizing how far into 2013 women must work to earn what men earned in 2012.

New Scholarship Commemorates 1963 March on Washington

The AFL-CIO and Union Privilege are partnering to establish a new scholarship that will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington. The “Dreams of Jobs and Freedom” scholarship will provide $5,000 each to at least 50 talented high school seniors from families– including union families and those in the community – to help pay for the costs of higher education.

Supreme Court Tackles Two Landmark Civil Rights Issues

All eyes were on the U.S. Supreme Court last week as it heard arguments from both sides of the same-sex marriage debate. Cases were brought forth questioning the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 8, which bans same-sex marriage in the state, and the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which limits federal marriage benefits to opposite-sex couples.

Machinists Vote to Strike Unarco in Tennessee

In the wake of a contract offer described  as “low and outside,” over 150 members of Local 1441 in Springfield, TN set up picket lines and commenced a strike to restore lost pay and benefits at Unarco Material Handling.

Time is Running Out to Fight TSA’s ‘Knives on Planes’ Decision

Friday, April 5 is the last day to sign a White House petition demanding the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) overturn their decision to allow knives on commercial flights. IAM Flight Attendants staged an informational picket Tuesday at Dulles Airport and spoke to passengers about signing the petition.

IAM Mourns Labor Legend Harry Kelber

After over seven decades in the labor movement as a union leader, critic, educator and academic, Harry Kelber passed away Sunday in New York City. He was 98 years old.

March "IAM Journal" Now Available

In the March issue, President Obama makes the case for the middle class in the first State of the Union address of his second term, sequestration takes a toll on working families, IAM members fight for voting rights, female civil rights leaders share their stories, the U.S. Labor Department suspends job corps enrollment, Flight Attendants rally against knives on planes and the IAM and supports Beechcraft’s protest of an Air Force award to a foreign company.

Enroll Now for Spanish Leadership I, May 5-10

The first of the two 2013 Spanish Leadership I Programs at the William W. Winpisinger Center is just around the corner. The next Spanish Leadership I is scheduled for May 5 – 10.

INSCRÍBASE AHORA PARA EL PRÓXIMO PROGRAMA DE LIDERAZGO I EN ESPAÑOL, MAYO 5- 10!

El primero de dos programas de Liderazgo I en español en el Centro William W. Winpisinger está acercándose rápidamente. Liderazgo I en español  está programado para el 5 al 10 de Mayo.

IAM Retirees Torpedo Ryan Budget Claims

IAM retiree and former United Airlines employee of 39 years Diane Fleming took to Capitol Hill to fight against cuts in Rep. Paul Ryan’s (R-WI) budget. Fleming, who came down with thyroid cancer last year, said she would be nearly through her savings if it wasn’t for Medicare, which covers her and her 92-year-old mother.

Arnprior Aerospace Ratifies New Contract

Members of both IAM Local Lodge 1542 divisions in Arnprior, Ontario, have ratified new collective agreements with Arnprior Aerospace. The new contract is designed to enhance the security of lodge membership and address competitive issues.

Reserve Now for 2013 IAM Legislative Conference

The 2013 IAM Legislative Conference is set for May 13-16 at the Hyatt Regency in Washington, DC. You can reserve rooms by calling the Hyatt Regency directly at 202-737-1234. The cut-off date for special room rates is April 8.

Texas Machinists Support Letter Carriers

Machinists Union members joined other unions and the AFL-CIO in San Antonio, TX in supporting the embattled National Association of Letter Carriers to protest the planned switch to five-day delivery service for first class mail in August. The unions are concerned about the effect of lack of delivery for seniors.

Negotiations to Resume in Belshaw Bakery Strike

Negotiations are set to resume with Belshaw Adamatic Bakery Group on March 28. More than 60 members of IAM Local 79 in Seattle, WA have been standing strong on the picket line since March 24 after voting unanimously to approve the strike.

Texas Machinists Hit the Street to Block Furloughs

For the second time in three weeks, IAM members of Locals 2049 and 2916 joined forces outside the offices of Texas Republican Blake Farenthold to send an unmistakable message that union members and government workers will not be silent victims of the manufactured crisis known as sequestration.

GST Roach Calls for Bankruptcy Law Reform

When it comes to corporate bankruptcy filings, sacrifices must be shared – equally – from top to bottom, said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr., before the American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) Commission to Study the Reform of Chapter 11, in Washington, DC.

IAM Proposes Stronger ‘Made in America’ Rules

The IAM is calling on the U.S. Export-Import Bank to strengthen its domestic content policies as part of its congressionally mandated review.

Global Union Accuses JELD-WEN of Labor Rights Violations

The Building and Wood Worker’s International (BWI) joined the IAM in calling out the world’s third largest door and window manufacturer, JELD-WEN, for a series of labor rights violations during an IAM campaign to organize JELD-WEN locations across the U.S. and Canada.

IAM Urges GE to Bargain Fairly Over Closures

IAM members at two General Electric plants in Chicago, IL and Houston, TX are calling on the manufacturing monolith to reconsider the public and personal impact of proposals they make at the conclusion of a 60-day “decision bargaining” period that follows GE’s January 26 announcement that the two Apparatus Service Centers will close.

Machinists Request NMB Release Mechanics at US Airways

The IAM formally requested that the National Mediation Board (NMB) release its US Airways Mechanic & Related members from further mediated contract negotiations and initiate a 30-day countdown to a strike. 

When the NMB releases both parties from mediated talks, the agency would then make a proffer of binding arbitration. If either party rejects the proffer, a 30-day cooling off period would begin. If an agreement still cannot be reached by the end of the 30 days, IAM members would be free to strike.

Congress Averts Government Shutdown, House Approves Anti-Middle-Class Ryan Budget

Congress has approved a short-term spending bill that will keep the government from shutting down when current funding expires on March 27.

Though a government shutdown appears to have been averted, the bill only covers six months. It also unfairly targets federal workers by extending a three-year pay freeze and maintains the furloughs of more than a million federal employees between April and the end of the fiscal year.

Babineaux Receives Community Service Award

In recognition of her decades of work for political freedom and economic justice, the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation’s Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR) awarded Diane Babineaux, Chief of Staff to the IAM International President, with the “BWR Social Justice Community Service Award.”

Click here to view the new Machinists News Network video.

IAM Mourns District 78 DBR Paul Mitchell

The IAM mourns the death of District 78 Directing Business Representative Paul Mitchell of Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada. He passed away at the age of 48.

Tell Congress to Vote ‘No’ on SKILLS Act, Welfare Work Requirement Bill

Congress is threatening to pass two bills that would make it harder for Americans to get access to job training and welfare when they need it most.

Take action: Click here to tell your congressional representatives to vote "No" on the SKILLS Act and the Preserving Work Requirements for Welfare Programs Act.

Buffenbarger to MNPL Delegates: ‘You are the Union’

Speaking less than a mile from where the battle of the Alamo took place in 1836, IAM President Tom Buffenbarger proposed an aggressive defense for a labor movement he described as no less besieged.

Flight Attendants Speak Out Against Knives on Planes

Flight Attendants are sending their message loud and clear to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Congress: no knives on their planes. The Coalition of Flight Attendants, which represents nearly 90,000 Flight Attendants, including IAM members, went to Capitol Hill March 14 to tell Congress to keep the skies safe.

U.S. Air Force Needs a Time Out

The IAM is urging the U.S. Secretary of Defense to call “time out” on the U.S. Air Force for its one-sided treatment of a Brazil-based company in the award of a $465 million contract to provide 20 Light Air Support (LAS) aircraft for the Afghan Air Force.

IAM Lauds White House Pick for Labor Secretary

“The IAM is eager to work with President Obama’s nominee for Labor Secretary,” said IAM President Tom Buffenbarger, who urged the Senate to confirm Thomas E. Perez as quickly as possible.

Soldier, Son of Machinists, Fights Back From Brain Injury

U.S. Army soldier Ryan Soto, son of IAM Local 698 members Mark and Robin Ward, tells a riveting story of the attack that left him with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a new Machinists News Network video.

Southern Territory Welcomes New Members in Kansas

Twenty-six workers at Spirit AeroSystems in Chanute, KS who manufacture small parts and assemblies used in Boeing aircraft voted for IAM Representation recently. The vote follows last month’s signing of a first contract by workers at the Spirit facility in Kinston, NC.

Ryan Budget Would Hurt Working Americans

House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) has introduced a 2014 fiscal year budget that would deeply cut health care and education spending that middle class families depend on. The plan also provides higher subsidies for shipping jobs overseas and bigger tax breaks for corporations and the wealthy.

Act Now to Support U.S. Jobs

IAM members have a unique opportunity to express their support for stronger U.S. content requirements in export transactions that are supported by the U.S. Export Import Bank. The Ex-Im Bank was created during the Roosevelt administration to support U.S. exports that support U.S. jobs by providing billions in annual loan guarantees.

Register Now for May Spanish Leadership 1 Class

The registration deadline for the May 5 Leadership I Program is rapidly approaching, so act now. All classroom instruction, books, and materials are in Spanish; however, the content is identical to the material used in the English leadership programs.

Regístrate ahora para la clase en Mayo de Liderazgo I en Español

El plazo de inscripción para la clase del 05 de Mayo de Liderazgo I se acerca rápidamente, así que actúe ahora. Si conoces a alguien en su logia local que esté interesado en asistir al Liderazgo I en español en Mayo, por favor notifiquen a los oficiales de su logia local lo más pronto posible.

Winpisinger Center Hosts National Labor College Program

The Winpisinger Center hosted eight IAM members to the IAM / National Labor College (NLC) General Education week. The week-long program is part of the requirement for a NLC bachelor’s degree in one of several labor studies programs.  The National Labor College offers degree programs in several labor related fields and partners with the IAM’s Winpisinger Education Center to allow IAM members to complete part of their degree program at the Winpisinger Center.

U.S. Air Force Backs Brazil over Beechcraft

The IAM is protesting a U.S. Air Force contract awarded to Brazilian-based Embraer over Wichita, KS-based Beechcraft Corp. The deal, which is for the production and delivery of 20 Light Air Support aircraft to the Afghan Air Force, is worth $427.5 million and threatens 1,400 American jobs.

Babineaux Attends International Women’s Day Rally

IAM Chief of Staff to the International President Diane Babineaux, who also heads the IAM’s Women’s and Human Rights Departments, represented the Machinists at the International Women’s Day rally in New York City.  

IAM Mourns Former District 751 President Bill Johnson

Bill Johnson, the former union president who led Machinists Union District Lodge 751 from 1992 through 2000 has died at his home in Seattle after a fight with cancer. He was 69.

Machinists Mobilize to Repeal TSA Blunder

The IAM has launched a campaign to repeal the recent decision by the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) to allow knives and other dangerous objects aboard aircraft.

Take Action: Click here to ask your Representative to sign on to the TSA letter and click here to sign a petition to the White House.

Knives in the Sky: Flight Attendants Fight Back

The IAM is standing up with Flight Attendants who are pushing back against a recent Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announcement that passengers would be allowed to carry small knives aboard commercial flights.

Study Highlights Public Demand for Portable Pensions

A growing majority of Americans are worried about the security of their retirement and want a new type of pension plan open to everyone, according to a newly released National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) report.

Railroad Retirement vs. Social Security: What You Need to Know

At a time when most Americans are gravely worried about retirement security, it’s important for employees to know what rights and benefits they may have. The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) recently released a series of questions and answers highlighting how the Railroad Retirement Act differs from Social Security.

District 751 Members Ratify New Contract at Hytek

Members of IAM District Lodge 751 in Seattle, WA working for Hytek Finishes voted to accept a revised contract offer after rejecting a previous offer and voting to authorize a strike. The vote caps a 17-month effort by Hytek employees to win IAM representation and a first contract. The new contract provides wage increases each year, bonuses, increased vacation, a skill-based system that provides an avenue for additional raises and immediate upgrades for dozens of workers.

North Carolina Local Signs Unique Pact with Spirit AeroSystems

Freshly-chartered Local 350 in Kinston, NC is kicking into high gear with a ground-breaking contract between the IAM and Spirit AeroSystems that includes language allowing for changes as the accord moves forward. This “living agreement” model has already proved its worth, with the addition of a Blue Cross/Blue Shield health care plan with the same premiums and cost-sharing as the previous plan, but with more than triple the number of providers in the network.

February ‘Special Edition’ Journal Now Available on the IAM App

The February “Special Edition” issue of the IAM Journal is now available on the IAM App. The “Special Edition” reports the results of nominations of Grand Lodge Officers, the Committee on Law, and Delegates to the AFL-CIO and Canadian Labour Congress.

Machinists Union Participates in Global Aviation Forum

The IAM took an active role in Feb. 20-22 International Labor Organization’s (ILO) Global Dialogue Forum (GDF) on the Effects of the Global Economic Crisis on the Civil Aviation Industry.

Labor Department Suspends Job Corps Enrollment

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has suspended new enrollments in its Job Corps programs that could affect almost 30,000 prospective students and cause layoffs of up to 10,000 staff members. The Job Corps program provides opportunities for low-income youths to earn a high-school diploma, receive vocational training or earn certifications in more than 100 specializations.

Mike Goddard Named to Western Territory Staff

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed Mike Goddard to the Western Territory staff – as Grand Lodge Special Representative, effective March 1.

Supreme Court to Review 1965 Voting Rights Act

The fate of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 now rests in the hands of nine U.S. Supreme Court justices, including one who openly expressed contempt for the law.

Union Leaders Call for Full Slate at NLRB

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger joined fellow members of the AFL-CIO Executive Council in calling on President Obama to immediately nominate a slate of five members to fill all vacant seats on the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Counting Down to March 1 Sequestration Deadline

U.S. lawmakers are rapidly approaching the onset of a “fiscal doomsday” scenario, known as sequestration, which promises, among many other things, to sacrifice more than a million U.S. jobs and hinder military readiness.

Lobstermen at Winpisinger Center Plan Organizing Effort

A unique group of workers, Lobstermen from Maine, met at the IAM’s William W. Winpisinger Education & Technology Center to plan organizing not only themselves, but potentially thousands of Lobstermen up and down the Maine coastline.

Federal Workers Urged to Speak Out on Sequestration

NFFE/IAM National President William Dougan appeared on Washington DC-area television station WUSA 9 to discuss the negative impacts of sequestration and urge federal workers, on their non-work time, to contact Congress.

Freedom Riders Arrive in Washington DC to Protect Voting Rights

Hundreds are headed to Washington, DC, to rally outside the U.S. Supreme Court Wednesday, February 27. The court will hear arguments on whether to strike Section Five of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

Noted Economist Sounds Off on Sequester

Nobel-prize winning economist Paul Krugman blasted the looming automatic federal budget cuts known as sequestration as “one of the worst policy ideas in our nation’s history” in an op-ed in the New York Times.

Illinois Machinist Elected to State House

State Representative Larry Walsh, Jr. has been elected to serve his first full term for the 86th Representative District of Illinois. Larry is an 18-year member of IAM Local 851 and IAM District 8.

2013 Photo and Newsletter Contest Deadline is May 10, 2013

Friday, May 10, 2013, is the deadline to enter the 2013 IAM Newsletter and Website Contest and the 2013 IAM Photo Contest.

Defense Department Announces Massive Furloughs, Pay Cuts

In a letter to Congress and civilian employees of the Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Secretary Leon Panetta announced 22 days of furloughs for 700,000 of the department’s 800,000 employees if sequestration takes effect March 1st. The result would be a 20 percent pay cut through the remainder of this year for affected employees.

Do your part by calling the U.S. Capitol Switchboard (on your own time, using your own phone) at (202) 224-3121 and tell them to protect the middle class by stopping sequestration. If they don’t hear from voters, they will assume nothing is wrong.

Edmonton Machinists Ratify Agreement with Servisair

Members of Local 1681 in Edmonton, Alberta ratified a new collective agreement with Servisair Canada Incorporated. There are eight other collective agreements between the IAM and Servisair across Canada that due for renewal this year.

Supreme Court to Hear Voting Rights Challenge on Feb. 27

Plans are underway for a massive rally on the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court on Feb. 27 to oppose any change to a key section of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which banned racial gerrymandering and opened Southern polling places to millions of African-American voters.

North Carolina to Unemployed: Drop Dead

North Carolina’s Republican Governor Pat McCrory signed a law this week to sharply cut benefits for jobless workers, saying the measure marked an important step toward “fixing” the state's unemployment insurance system.

IAM and AWU Sign New Global Alliance

As multinational corporations expand their reach and move work across the globe, unions in Europe, Asia and most recently Australia have joined forces to fight for the rights of all workers. At the National Conference of the Australian Workers Union (AWU), delegates endorsed a new alliance with the IAM. "Together, through the good times and the bad, the IAM and the AWU have stood together fighting for the rights of workers in North America, Australia, and around the world," said IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger in his address to the Conference.

Coalition Demands Congress ‘Stop Sequestration’

Business leaders, research scientists and health policy advocates came together in Washington to oppose government sequestration in a new video by the Machinists News Network.

TAKE ACTION: Click here to tell Congress to "Avoid Sequestration, Avert Debt Crisis by Creating Jobs."

IAM Mourns Former CLUW Co-Founder and President

Prominent labor leader and long-time women’s and civil rights advocate Gloria T. Johnson died Wednesday, February 13, 2013.

IAM Workers at Trane Win New Contract

Trane company workers of Local Lodge 1296 in Clarksville, TN are on the job after ratifying a contract Saturday after standing strong in negotiations. When Trane negotiators demanded a 12-month “probation” for newly-hired employees before they would get union contract protections and health insurance, the local went to the press and community to garner support for the Trane workers.

IAM Scholarship Deadline Has Been Extended

The IAM Scholarship Deadline has been extended to April 26, 2013. Click here to read the rules, regulations and download the applications. Application packets have been mailed to all local and district lodges.

Date limite des bourses d’étude de l’AIM a été prolongée

La date limite des bourses d’étude de l’AIM a été prolongée au 26 Avril 2013. Cliquez ici pour lire les règles, règlements et télécharger les applications.  Les demandes d’inscription ont  été postées aux Districts et sections locales.

IAM to US Airways: Contracts First, Merger Second

The IAM declared renewed contracts for its US Airways members must be concluded before the IAM is willing to support the merger of US Airways and American Airlines.

District 141 Reaches Tentative Contracts for 32,500 at United

Less than a year after resolving all representational disputes at the airline formed by a merger of United, Continental and Continental Micronesia airlines, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced tentative agreements for 32,500 employees in the Ramp/Fleet Service, Public Contact/Reservations and Stock Clerk/Stores classifications at the world’s largest airline.

New York ‘Black Car’ Drivers Win First Contract

Nearly 200 drivers employed by Town Car International in Long Island City, NY, ratified their first ever IAM contract, bringing their historic journey full circle. The drivers, who provide premium personal transportation services in the New York metropolitan area, are mostly recent immigrants trying to build a good life in the United States.

Sequestration Threatens to Torpedo U.S. Shipbuilding

The IAM joined with fellow affiliates of the AFL-CIO Metal Trades Department and Shipbuilders Council of America to send a joint letter to the U.S. House and Senate Armed Services Committees urging Congress to pass a defense appropriations bill and avoid sequestration cuts before the Navy begins widespread layoffs and ship maintenance cancellations on February 15, 2013.

Register Now for IAM 2013 Aerospace Conference

The IAM 2013 Aerospace Conference will be held April 10-14, 2013 at the Westin Seattle Hotel in Seattle, Washington.

IAM Warns Against New Taxes for U.S. Business Aviation Industry

In a statement released on the eve of the State of the Union address, IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger praised President Obama’s support for a robust U.S. aviation industry, but warned that proposals to increase taxes on U.S.-made business jets could cripple a home grown industry that employs 1.2 million Americans.

Labor Department Extends FMLA Protections to Flight Attendants

The IAM praises the Department of Labor’s (DOL) final rule that guarantees Flight Attendants are not denied protections afforded by the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

IAM Video Highlights Aerospace Father and Son Team

A new Machinists News Network (MNN) video shows the notion of “generational shops” is not a thing of the past. The tradition still lives on today, especially in the aerospace industry.

Union Sportsmen’s Alliance Celebrates Five Years

The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) celebrates five years of uniting the union community and expanding and improving access to hunting, fishing, and wildlife.

California Locals Prepare for Negotiations with Coca-Cola

District Lodge 947 and affiliate Locals 311 and 1186 in Los Angeles, CA spent a week at the William W. Winpisinger Center preparing for the upcoming negotiations with the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Los Angeles.  The current contract, which covers nearly 160 members, expires on April 4, 2013.

Sequestration Axe Poised to Drop on March 1

President Obama is urging Congress to delay the more than $1.2 trillion in automatic sequestration cuts, set to take effect March 1, through a suggested mix of minor revenue-raising tax reforms and spending cuts. The proposed plan would merely buy the deadlocked Congress time, once again kicking the task of creating a more comprehensive solution further down the road.

TAKE ACTION: Click here to tell Congress to avoid sequestration by creating jobs.

Remembering the Women of the Civil Rights Movement

Whether it was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. or Jesse Jackson, history has highlighted the contributions of men during the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. But as new video from the Machinists News Network shows us, women played a prominent role as well, including members of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, or SNCC. Four of them shared their historical experiences with labor leaders at the 2013 AFL-CIO Martin Luther King Observance in Philadelphia.

January IAM 'Journal' Now Available on the IAM App

In the January issue, President Obama embarks on a second term, the debt battle continues to threaten the American economy, union members honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Delta Flight Attendants meet at the Winpisinger Center, IAM protects pensions at Hawker Beechcraft and Amtrak stands to win better funding.

FMLA Marks Two Decades of Service to America

February 5, 2013 marked the 20th birthday of the Family and Medical Leave Act, also known as FMLA.

Interstate ‘Job Poaching’ Drains State Coffers

States are wasting billions of dollars by using taxpayer subsidies to lure existing jobs from each other, rather than creating new jobs from scratch. The study, by the progressive advocacy group, ‘Good Jobs First,’ outlines how companies solicit economic development subsidies, by threatening to relocate existing jobs from one state to another. The practice also includes soliciting massive subsidies for promises to not relocate as well.

Rocket City Local Ratifies Improved Contract with Boeing

Members of Rocket City Local 2766 in Madison, AL have a new four-year contract with the Boeing Company in Huntsville, AL that includes a $2,500 signing bonus in addition to four annual wage increases of three percent, two percent, two percent and two percent. The new contract also contains a guarantee that health care premiums for members will remain the same in the first year of the contract and will be reduced by 4 percent the second year. Finally, health care costs will be capped in the final two years of this new agreement.  

IAM Salutes Rosa Park’s 100th Birthday

Born on February 4, 1913, this week marks the 100th birthday of civil rights activist Rosa Parks.

Rebecca McMullen Named to Leadership Position

Effective February 1, 2013, IAM Reports Technology Clerk Rebecca McMullen will become Assistant Director of the IAM Membership Services Department.

Ohio District 54 Claims Victory over IBT

Members of IAM Local 2276, District 54 employed at Ultra-Met in Urbana, OH prevailed over the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) in an attempted raid. Despite the disruption caused by the attempt, IAM members and leaders maintained their focus, preparing for upcoming negotiations.

Austerity Hawks Backing ‘Fix the Debt’ Campaign

“Brace yourself,” says former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich in a recent blog post. “In coming weeks you’ll hear there’s no serious alternative to cutting Social Security and Medicare, raising taxes on the middle class, and decimating what’s left of the federal government’s discretionary spending on everything from education and job training to highways and basic research. ‘We’ must make these sacrifices, it will be said, in order to deal with our mushrooming budget deficit and cumulative debt.”

Machinists Pensions Survive Hawker Bankruptcy

Far exceeding the customary expectations of workers at a bankrupt company, a federal bankruptcy judge in New York today approved a settlement that preserves pension benefits for more than 3,000 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at Hawker Beechcraft Corp. (HBC) in Wichita, KS.

Bill Press Show Hosts IAM President Buffenbarger

In a wide-ranging conversation with radio host Bill Press that included the economy, jobs, sequestration, labor law enforcement and right-to-work (for less) efforts, IAM President Tom Buffenbarger called for an aggressive strategy to overcome the right-wing’s war on unions and the middle-class.

SRI Employees Win Unfair Labor Practice Settlement

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has worked out a settlement agreement for Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charges filed by the IAM against Strategic Resources, Inc. (SRI). SRI is a Service Contract Act employer at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state. The settlement allows SRI to avoid a trial on more than a dozen violations of Federal labor laws for its conduct against two groups of employees who voted for IAM representation.

IAM-UMass Graduate Degree Partnership Thrives

The new education partnership between the IAM and UMass-Amherst has recently yielded some very exciting results. Eight IAM members just completed their first graduate-level session at the Amherst campus.

Defense Department Warns of 800,000 Civilian Furloughs

Top Pentagon officials say the Department of Defense (DoD) has already begun eliminating some 46,000 temporary civilian workers ahead of possible mandatory budget cuts.

April 28-May 3 Basic Web Development Course Rescheduled

The 2013 Basic Web Development Course for April 28-May 3 has been rescheduled to July 14-19, 2013.

IAM, Retirees at Raytheon Win Long Battle for Justice

Local 933 retirees at Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, AZ won their long battle for justice, a journey that led to the halls of Congress and numerous courtrooms. In 2004, Raytheon made unilateral changes to the retirees’ healthcare benefits that were spelled out in the IAM/Raytheon agreement. The retirees won numerous court decisions against Raytheon’s actions, but Raytheon kept appealing and delaying justice.

US Airways, American Airlines Announce Back-Room Deal

US Airways and American Airlines announced an agreement for American Airlines' Mechanics and Related, Fleet Service, Materials and Logistics Specialists, Fleet Simulator Technicians, Ground School and Simulator Instructors, Maintenance Control Technicians and Dispatchers in the event the two carriers merge. The agreement calls for a 4.3 percent raise and defines processes for other transition related issues.

Multi-state Bargaining Committee Trains at WWW Center

A five-member negotiating committee, representing 163 IAM members in five separate states, recently participated in the William W. Winpisinger Center Bargaining Prep Program to train, plan and build negotiating strategies for upcoming talks with their employer.

IAM Presses for More OSHA Protections for Flight Attendants

The IAM submitted comments to the Department of Transportation regarding the Federal Aviation Administration’s Policy Statement on Occupational Safety and Health Standards for Aircraft Crewmembers.

This Date in History: January 29, 2009

Four years ago today, a newly elected President Barack Obama delivered on a campaign promise and signed into law the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. The law makes it easier for women to effectively challenge unequal pay.

IAM Members in Washington for Inauguration

The inauguration of Barack Obama and Joe Biden was rightly given wall-to-wall media coverage around the world, but each one of the nearly one million spectators who filled the National Mall had their own story to tell and their own reason for being there.

Community Service Projects Highlight 2013 MLK Observance

Union members nationwide performed community service this week to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Among their projects, delegates to the AFL-CIO’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday Observance in Philadelphia helped paint the interior of a local recreation center.

Winpisinger Center Delivers Multiple Negotiation Prep Programs

Among the uninformed, it’s fashionable to suggest that unions spend a disproportionate amount of time, money and resources defending the small percentage of members who face disciplinary problems at work.

GOP Suspends Debt Fight, Ignores Sequestration Crisis

The GOP-controlled House of Representatives voted to raise the nation’s debt ceiling until May, staving off one of three quickly-approaching deadlines, each of which threaten to put the country back into recession.
Right now, the U.S. is projected to reach its debt limit by mid-February. The House bill, if passed in the Senate, would suspend the federal government’s borrowing restrictions until May 18.

TAKE ACTION: Click here to tell Congress and the White House to avoid sequestration and avert the debt crisis by creating jobs.

Legislation Introduced (Again) to Secure Equal Pay for Women

U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD) have reintroduced the Paycheck Fairness Act, legislation to help close the wage gap between women and men working the same jobs. Women make just 77 cents for every dollar made by a man for equal work, costing women and their families $434,000 over their careers.

Obama Inaugural Address Highlights Progressive Priorities

In an Inauguration Day address that sought to harness the energy of the Civil Rights movement, President Barack Obama laid out an ambitious agenda that included protection for programs such as Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security. The President surprised many listeners when he listed action on climate change and ensuring equal justice for Gay Americans among the priorities for his second term.

IAM Welcomes OSHA Whistleblower Accord with BNSF

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Company (BNSF) announced an accord in which the freight rail company agreed to voluntarily change existing personnel policies which OSHA alleged violated whistleblower provisions of the Federal Railroad Safety Act (FRSA).

Spanish Leadership Programs Set for Growth in 2013

The Spanish Leadership Programs offered at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center are set for even more growth in 2013. The courses are designed for IAM officers, activists, and members who speak Spanish as their primary language. The last Spanish Leadership I class in December 2012 capped a successful year that was part of a larger IAM effort to make education available to all its members.

Programas de Liderazgo en Español crecen en 2013

Los Programas de Liderazgo en Español ofrecidos Centro William W. Winpisinger de Educación y Tecnología se establecen para un crecimiento aún más en 2013. Los cursos están diseñados para los oficiales de la IAM, activistas y miembros que hablan español como su idioma principal. El ultimo Liderazgo I en Español en Diciembre de 2012 culminó un año exitoso que fue parte de un esfuerzo más amplio para la IAM y la educación disponible para todos sus miembros.

Far Right Renews Attack on NLRB

It is tempting to think that the first days of a new administration might be an opportunity for old adversaries to rise above the partisanship that marked the last four years, but the conservative blogosphere wasted little time renewing its attack on one of the far right’s favorite targets; the National Labor Relations Board.

2013 Basic Newsletter Class Rescheduled

The Communications Department’s 2013 Basic Newsletter Class scheduled to be held at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center at Placid Harbor, Maryland on March 17-22, 2013 is being rescheduled. If possible, this class will be scheduled for later this year and if not, it will be offered again in 2014.

MLK Observance Underway in Philadelphia

The AFL-CIO’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday Observance kicked off today in Philadelphia with the theme “We Are One: Workers’ Rights and Civil Rights – Protecting and Expanding Democracy.”

Former Teamsters Choose IAM at Luke Air Force Base

Four former IBT bargaining units at Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix, AZ voted “YES” for IAM representation with the IAM garnering 80 percent of the vote.  The former Teamster members decertified with the IBT in 2009 after enduring poor representation, especially the lack of expertise in the Service Contract Act (SCA) area. The 82 employees work for four separate companies at the base, L-3 Vertex, the primary contractor, and three sub-contractors; AVPOL, NFFM (Northwest Florida Facilities Management) and ORASA. The new members are primarily aircraft mechanics and workers on F-16 Fighter Jets.

PBS Worth Watching: ‘Can You Afford to Retire?’

Proving once again why it’s one of the most respected and valuable news programs ever, FRONTLINE, the documentary series on PBS this week aired ‘Can You Afford to Retire?’ Click here to view the eye opening program online.

Labor Celebrates Return of Maine Labor Mural

Labor advocates in Maine are proud to announce that after two years of hiding, an 11-panel, 36-foot mural depicting the state’s labor history will once again see the light of day. The mural, created by artist Judy Taylor, is back on public display after the state Department of Labor and Maine State Museum reached an agreement to display the piece for three years at the Augusta Museum.

GOP: Drug Test the Jobless and Unemployed

Legislation calling for drug testing the unemployed, crafted by the right-wing American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), is once again gaining momentum.

District 15 Organizes 225 at GKN Aerospace in New York

New York District 15 scored a decisive organizing victory recently when 225 workers at GKN Aerospace in Amityville, NY rejected a fierce anti-union campaign and voted overwhelmingly to join the IAM. The win comes after two previous elections fell short.

Defense Department Official Drops Jobs Bombshell

Jobs are not on my priority list, says a top U.S. official with the Department of Defense (DoD) in a new video on the Machinists News Network. The remark was made during a keynote address at the Brookings Institute, Washington, DC, regarding $45 billion of possible cuts to the DoD budget.

Pensions Secured for Long Beach IAM Members

More than 3,600 IAM members employed by the City of Long Beach, CA recently voted to ratify a landmark proposal that provides significant savings for the city while preserving existing pension benefits for members. The agreement also extends the current contract by one year and includes a no-layoff clause for the remainder of the accord.

$100K Delivered in Hurricane Sandy Relief, More Donations Needed

The IAM Community Services Department reports that close to $100,000 in donated IAM disaster relief funds have been used to help IAM members impacted by Hurricane Sandy.

IAM Mourns Former Auditor Charles Cook

The IAM mourns the death of former Grand Lodge Auditor Charles Edward “Ed” Cook of Cross Plains, IN. Charles passed away Monday morning at the age of 75.

Delta Flight Attendants Meet at Winpisinger Center

Delta Air Lines Flight Attendants met this week at the Winpisinger Center for three days of organizing training, strategy sessions and planning.

IAM President Praises U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis

The following is a statement from Tom Buffenbarger, International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), following the announcement that U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Hilda Solis will retire.

Mexico Day of Action to Mark Deadly Mine Explosion

The IndustriALL Global Union Executive Committee is calling for an international “Mexico Days of Action” during the week of February 18-24, 2013.

UCubed Unveils New Website to Help Unemployed

The Union of Unemployed (UCubed) has released a new website in its efforts to organize, educate and empower unemployed and underemployed Americans. Features include a running tab on the “real” unemployment rate which now stands at 14.4 percent.

High Unemployment Smothering U.S. Economy

The idea that the American economy is sluggish because of a ballooning federal budget deficit is a complete and total farce, says co-founder and co-editor of The American Prospect magazine, Robert Kuttner.  The real reason, according to Kuttner and many economists is that the economy is slow because of high unemployment.

Workers Ratify First Contract at IKEA in Savannah

Sixty-two workers at the IKEA Warehouse/Distribution Center in Savannah, GA, are celebrating a new year with a first IAM Contract after organizing to join the Machinists Union last summer. The three-year agreement gives raises of 17 percent over the term of the accord, caps health insurance costs and ensures a voice on the job for IKEA employees.

Congress Balks at Executive Order to End Federal Pay Freeze

Last month, President Obama issued an executive order bringing an end to the more than two-year federal pay freeze. Effective March 27th, 2013, federal workers will see a pay increase of 0.5 percent; a small sum, but more than anything federal employees have seen since 2010.

Union Plus Scholarship Deadline January 31

You still have time to apply for a 2013 Union Plus Scholarship. The deadline for applications is January 31. This year's application is entirely online. Scholarships are from $500 to $4,000 and do not require repayment.

IAM Wins First Contract at Spirit AeroSystems in North Carolina

IAM members at Spirit AeroSystems in Kinston, NC recently ratified an historic first agreement that aims to help grow the new facility with a ground-breaking partnership.

Larkin Named to Lead IAM Communications Department

International President Tom Buffenbarger has tapped Communications Representative Frank Larkin to take the helm at the IAM Communications Department upon the retirement of current Communications Director Rick Sloan. The appointment is effective January 1, 2013.

Alabama Members Help Raise $320,000 for United Way

Local 2003 at Ft. Rucker, AL capped off a great year of giving by delivering, in partnership with employer Army Fleet Support (AFS),an oversized check to the Wiregrass United Way (WUW) of more than $320,000.

Hostess Workers Fight for Final Paychecks

While current and former executives at bankrupt Hostess Brands, Inc., decide how to spend millions in bonuses, hourly workers are discovering their final paychecks will be short several hundred dollars in promised vacation pay.

Paul Urbanczyk Joins Midwest Territory Staff

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has appointed Paul R. Urbanczyk to the position of Special Representative effective January 1, 2013.

Improved Contract Ends Strike in Fayetteville, Tennessee

Members of Local Lodge 2385 in Fayetteville, TN, voted by a 3-1 margin to accept an improved contract offer and end their 5-day strike at Goodman Mfg. in Faytetteville, TN.

Nevada Local 845 Ratifies New Contract by Wide Margin

Members of Local 845 in Las Vegas, NV who are employed by CSC at Nellis Air Force Base (AFB) have ratified their second contract with significant improvements since joining the IAM just a few years ago.

Check Out Made in America, Union Made Gifts

Finding that perfect gift this holiday season doesn't have to be a headache. Check out Labor 411’s Made in America, union-made gift guide.

Kansas District 70 Delivers ‘Spirit of Labor’ Christmas Program

The large meeting hall at District 70 in Wichita, KS is once again hosting the Annual Spirit of Labor Christmas Program, a joint effort with the Wichita/Hutchison Labor Federation to bring the holiday spirit to over 850 area children that wouldn’t otherwise have a Christmas.

IAM, LCLAA Join Forces to Feed Connecticut Families

IAM Local 1871 in Groton, CT recently completed its 22nd year of providing Thanksgiving baskets for dozens of out-of-work members and needy families in southeastern Connecticut. With Christmas just around the corner, the local is now teaming up with the Connecticut chapter of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) to provide traditional holiday dinners for additional families in need.

China to Secure Major Stake in Aircraft Leasing Firm

“The recent announcement that American International Group (AIG) will sell up to 90 percent of its airplane leasing unit to an investor in China raises serious economic and security questions,” said IAM President Tom Buffenbarger.  “The prospect of large amounts of aircraft maintenance work being funneled to China as a result of this deal is an issue that should concern aircraft and aerospace suppliers and vendors throughout North America.”

Western Territory Commemorates Human Rights Day

Western Territory GVP Gary Allen spoke recently at the Snohomish County Human Rights Commission Event to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations on December 10, 1948.

December 18 is Federal Employees Day of Action

Washington politicians are at it again. If they don’t find a way to avoid the “fiscal cliff” by year’s end, federal workers could see devastating cuts to their pay, retirement, health care and jobs. Congress may have created this problem, but it is up to you to fix it.

Grand Lodge Closed for Holidays

IAM Headquarters will close for the holidays at the close of business Wednesday, December 19, 2012, and re-open Wednesday, January 2, 2013. Best wishes to all for a safe and joyous holiday season.

Tennessee Strikers to Vote on Revised Contract Offer

A vote will take place on December 13 on an improved contract offer which, if approved, would end a five-day strike by about 1,100 IAM members at Goodman Manufacturing in Fayetteville, TN.

‘In These Times’ Examines IAM Organizing at IKEA

The IAM campaign to organize IKEA-owned facilities in the United States continues to attract media attention here in the U.S. and around the world. The most recent example is an article by writer Bruce Vail in the latest issue of In These Times magazine.

New Health Care Benefit for PBGC Payees

Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) payees, ages 55 or older, and their families can receive help with health insurance costs through the Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC).

District 751 Secretary-Treasurer Named to Housing Commission

District 751 Secretary-Treasurer Susan A. Palmer has been named to a five-year term as commissioner of the King County (WA) Housing Authority (KCHA). As one of five commissioners serving the county that includes Seattle, Palmer will help provide strategic direction and guidance for the housing authority.

NY Times: Walmart Blocked Fire Safety Efforts in Bangladesh

A New York Times report says that Walmart played a larger role than the retailer indicated in the garment factory fire that killed more than 100 workers in Savar, Bangladesh last month.

GOP Poised to Pass Right-to-Work Law in Michigan

An unholy alliance of Tea Party Republicans in the Michigan statehouse and the billionaire Koch brothers are on the brink of making Michigan the latest state to pass right to work (for less) legislation.

IAM Wins Top Honors at ILCA Award Ceremony

The Machinists Union won several top honors in the annual International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) Media Awards contest, which honors the best in labor journalism.

Tennessee Local 2385 Members Vote to Strike Goodman

Members of IAM Local 2385 in Fayetteville, TN, voted by a two-thirds margin on December 8, 2012 to strike the Goodman Co. The expired collective bargaining agreement covers approximately 1,100 workers.

WWW Center Debuts New Class for VA Representatives

The Veterans Affairs (VA) Training Program is the newest class for federal workers offered at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center, and is designed to give NFFE-IAM representatives the resources, education and support they need to serve members employed by the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department.

UCubed Unveils ‘Unanimous Consent’ Video

With the “fiscal cliff” looming, the Union of Unemployed (UCubed) released a new holiday video urging the Senate to say “nay” to any sort of UC during debt talks.

'Brotherhood Outdoors' Seeks IAM Member for Kansas Hunt

Watching hunting and fishing shows is great, but being part of one is even better.  And the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance is looking for a hardworking IAM sportsman or woman for a Kansas predator hunt on its union-dedicated TV series, Brotherhood Outdoors, at the end of January.

IAM Presses for OSHA Protections for Flight Attendants

The Federal Aviation Administration is proposing a new policy that establishes the extension of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for Flight Attendants.

Machinists Union to Whirlpool: ‘Spin This’

On December 2, 2012, the Whirlpool Corporation took out a full-page ad in the Washington Post to congratulate itself on a supposed commitment to U.S. workers, their families and communities. In response, the IAM says: “Hold the applause.”

Alberta Local 99 Committee Completes Bargaining Prep

Eight representatives from Local 99 in Edmonton, AB recently took part in the Negotiations Preparation Class at William W. Winpisinger Education & Technology Center to prepare for upcoming contract negotiations with Vancouver, BC-based Finning International.

Register Now for 2013 Human Rights and Women’s Programs

Continuing a tradition of making the resources of the William Winpisinger Center available to our increasingly diverse membership, the IAM will conduct simultaneous Human Rights and Women’s programs on February 24-March 1, 2013 and August 25-30, 2013.

GOP Targets Social Security, Medicare for Fiscal Cliff

Unless Congress and the president reach an agreement before January 1, tax rates will automatically rise next year for nearly all Americans and major spending cuts, known as “sequestration,” will automatically begin to kick in for most government spending programs, including defense.

TAKE ACTION: Click here to tell Congress and the White House their final deal must stop sequestration while protecting the middle class. Click here to demand a payroll tax cut extension. And click here to demand extended unemployment benefits for the jobless.

Lady Gaga, Guide Dogs of America and Michael Jackson

Singer, activist and pop curiosity Lady Gaga was a featured bidder at a recent auction in Los Angeles, CA for costumes and memorabilia belonging to the late Michael Jackson. Among the beneficiaries of the auction was the IAM’s favorite charity, Guide Dogs of America (GDA).

When Bad Things Happen to Good Members

Among the scores of IAM members turning to their union for help in the wake of Super Storm Sandy, is Neil Trinchese, a member of New York Local 447 whose Howard Beach home was severely damaged when ocean water poured into the house.

Watkins Estate Donates $50,000 to Guide Dogs of America

The estate of Helen Watkins, wife of former IAM General Vice President George Watkins, has made another generous donation to the IAM, this time to the Guide Dogs of America (GDA). The Watkins’ Living Trust is donating $50,000 to the IAM charity.

IAM Calls for Tighter Regulation of Aircraft Repair Stations

Transportation GVP Sito Pantoja is calling for tighter regulations in response to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking which seeks to reform the rules governing aircraft repair stations.

Restaurants Cutting Workers’ Hours to Avoid Health Care

Several restaurants and their franchises, still smarting over the president’s re-election, are now threatening to layoff or cut back employee hours to avoid paying for the president’s health care plan.

Bangladesh Factory Fire Recalls Triangle Tragedy

The IAM is joining with unions around the world calling attention to deadly working conditions at a garment factory in Savar, Bangladesh, where more than 100 workers were killed in a fire reminiscent of the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City.

Klima, Hannah Named to Key Transportation Department Posts

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger today announced the appointment of Grand Lodge Representative Tim Klima as an additional Airline Coordinator for the 100,000 plus member Transportation Department. A 32 year IAM veteran and former Northwest Airlines employee, Klima will join Airline Coordinator Tom Brickner and be responsible for the department’s collective bargaining, organizing campaigns and contract administration.

IAM Mourns Union Leader Marvin Miller

Accolades continue to mount for Marvin Miller, the legendary leader of the Major League Baseball Players Association, who died this week in New York at age 95. As Executive Director of the Association from 1966 to 1982, Miller did more than anyone else to force owners to share in the enormous profits generated by professional baseball.

Announcing the New IAM App for iPhones

This November marks the one-year anniversary of the launch of the groundbreaking IAM App. And with this milestone comes the much-anticipated IAM App for iPhone users.

IAM Wins in NLRB Case Against Hytek Finishes

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) this week notified the IAM that managers at Hytek Finishes in Kent, WA committed nine separate violations of the National Labor Relations Act over the past 14 months during negotiations with the IAM over a contract for hourly workers at the plant.

Dec. 7 is Deadline for February Basic Federal Employees Class

The enrollment deadline for the Federal Employees Basic Program scheduled for February 3-8, 2013 at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center (WWW) in Hollywood, Maryland, is December 7, 2012. There is an additional Basic Program scheduled for March 10-15, 2013. The enrollment deadline for the March class is January 11, 2013.

Tell Congress: No ‘Grand Bargain’ Sellout

Congress has until the end of the year to strike a deal avoiding across-the-board, mandatory spending cuts known as "sequestration" and a series of expiring tax measures, including the middle-class payroll tax cut and extended unemployment insurance benefits.

TAKE ACTION: Click here to tell Congress and the White House any "Grand Bargain" must stop sequestration while protecting the middle class. Click here to demand a payroll tax cut extension. And click here to demand extended unemployment benefits for the jobless.

IAM Video Highlights Guide Dogs’ Mission

The extraordinary work of Guide Dogs of America (GDA) was summed up by a recent graduate in an IAM video about the annual William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet in Las Vegas, NV. “He has changed my life,” declared a beaming Luetta Johnson of Lincoln NE, who was paired up with her dog in April at the GDA breeding and training facility in Sylmar, CA.

Enroll Now for Federal Employees Basic Class

The IAM will conduct the 2013 Federal Employees’ Basic Program at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center, (WWW) in Hollywood, Maryland, during the week of March 10-15, 2013.

District 141 Pioneers Spanish Language HazMat Program

A quartet of IAM CREST Associate Instructors from IAM District 141 recently took part in a Spanish Development Workshop designed to ensure that Spanish-speaking members will have the same access to dangerous goods training materials as English-speaking members.

Plan to Attend Historic MLK Observance in Philadelphia

The 2013 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday Observance will take place January 17-21 in Philadelphia, PA and will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the historic 1963 March on Washington. The Observance will also coincide with the inauguration of President Barack Obama and Vice President Joseph Biden in Washington, D.C., on January 21, 2013

IAM President Names Babineaux, Cervantes to Executive Council Team

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger announced that Chief of Staff to the International President Diane Babineaux and Assistant Secretary Dora Cervantes will be added to the Executive Council team. If nominated and elected, they will become the first women in IAM history to serve on the IAM Executive Council.

IAM President Elected to Labor Advisory Committee

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger has been re-elected to Chair a key federal advisory committee: the Labor Advisory Committee for Trade Negotiations and Trade Policy.

Michalski, Wroblewski Receive 2012 ‘Gift of Sight’ Award

This year’s ‘Gift of Sight’ award ceremony also included a posthumous recipient; Captain L.A. Kreimer, a German Army veteran of World War I who went on to train guide dogs for the U.S. Army and is today recognized as the founding father of the guide dog movement in the United States.

UCubed Launches ‘Exit Left Ahead’ Campaign

The Union of Unemployed (UCubed) launched a new Facebook campaign to encourage its 132,000 Facebook fans – and their 35 million friends – to urge Congress to vote against austerity measures being proposed by the GOP.

Register Now for Final 2012 Spanish Leadership I Program

The last of the three 2012 Spanish Leadership Programs at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center is just around the corner. Spanish Leadership I is scheduled for December 9 through the 14, 2012. The enrollment cutoff date for the December Leadership I Program is Friday, November 30.

Editorial: Sequestration Cuts Equal Fiscal Devastation

In a guest editorial published in the Seattle Times, Aerospace GVP Mark Blondin pulls no punches describing the devastating impact on defense and commercial aerospace work if Congress fails to prevent sequestration cuts from taking effect in January 2013.

Winpisinger Center Receives Generous Donation

The estate of Helen Watkins, the wife of former IAM General Vice President George Watkins has made a generous donation of $20,000 to the IAM William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center. George and Helen Watkins were married for 61 years and were both active in civic and charitable organizations. Together, they created a Living Trust that envisioned donations to the organizations that they had supported once both had passed away. George died in 1993 and Helen passed away in June, 2012.

MLK Observance in Philadelphia to Coincide with Inauguration

The 2013 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday Observance will take place January 17-21 in Philadelphia, PA and will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the historic 1963 March on Washington. The Observance will also coincide with the inauguration of President Barack Obama and Vice President Joseph Biden in Washington, D.C., on January 21, 2013.

Photo Contest Winners Featured in 2013 IAM Calendar

The 2013 Calendar features the winners of the 2012 IAM Photo Contest. Calendars are $7 per calendar for individual orders and $5 dollars per calendar for orders of 100 or more. Two dollars from each calendar sold are donated to Guide Dogs of America.

Hostess CEO Falsely Blames Bakery Closures on Strike

The recent claim by Hostess CEO Greg Rayburn that a strike by members of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco and Grain Millers (BCTGM) is forcing the cake maker to close three of its bakeries is a classic example of a corporation turning on its employees in the midst of a bankruptcy restructuring.

Improved Agreement Ends Strike at Bombardier Learjet

Members of IAM Local 639 in Wichita, KS, ratified an improved agreement with Bombardier Learjet that ended a strike at the Wichita facility that began on October 8.

IAM and LIRR Negotiations Stall

The IAM has requested the National Mediation Board (NMB) release the IAM from mediated contract talks with the Long Island Railroad (LIRR). If granted, a release would trigger a 30-day “cooling off” period. If an agreement still cannot be reached during that time, either party may engage in self-help.

Ohio Local 1943 Honors Veterans, Active Duty Members

Local 1943 President and Directing Business Representative Neil Douglas commended the service and sacrifice of Ohio veterans and active duty service members in Veteran’s Day remarks delivered at the American Legion Post 218 in Middletown, OH. Earlier that day, Douglas spoke at the Middletown Veterans Memorial Committee (MVMC) Veterans Day Memorial. Douglas, a veteran and longtime supporter of the MVMC, represents IAM members employed at AK Steel and Pilot Chemical, both in Middletown, OH.

Arizona Local 933 Ratifies New Contract with Raytheon

Members of Old Pueblo Local 933 in Tucson, AZ have a new three-year contract with Raytheon Missile Systems that includes a $750 signing bonus, stronger seniority language and some of the highest wages in the state for nearly 1,600 IAM-represented workers.

California Anti-Union Prop 32 Defeated by Wide Margin

Organized labor scored a huge victory in California on November when voters defeated a proposition that would have crippled the ability of unions to participate in elections.

The Voters Have Spoken: Four More Years

Americans refused to be intimidated by severe weather, long lines at polling places or a massive voter suppression campaign and turned out in large numbers to elect Barack Obama to a second term as President of the United States. Voters also increased Democratic control of the Senate while Republicans held on to the House of Representatives.

Bee Mad Campaign Delivers Stinging Defeat for GOP

UCubed applauds its 132,000 Facebook fans and 35 million friends of fans for a job well done in their groundbreaking get-out-the-vote campaign, BEE MAD @ THE GOP.

2013 IAM Calendar Now On Sale

The 2013 IAM Calendar is now on sale. The 2013 Calendar features the winners of the 2012 IAM Photo Contest. Calendars are $7 per calendar for individual orders and $5 dollars per calendar for orders of 100 or more. Two dollars from each calendar sold are donated to Guide Dogs of America.

Latino House of Labor Unveils New Website

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) has announced the official launch of its 40th Anniversary Website at http://lclaa.org/.

Special Appeal for Storm Relief Donations

The images of devastation that flooded our national consciousness in the wake of Hurricane Sandy triggered an immediate outpouring of empathy for the families and communities torn apart by the storm. More than 113 people were killed and thousands were left without homes, heat or belongings.

IAM Supports Delta Flight Attendants

The IAM formally announced its support of the Delta Flight Attendants’ effort to gain IAM representation.

First Contract Highlights IAM Bargaining Chops

The IAM Aerospace Territory and District 837 in St. Louis, MO joined forces recently to convert a successful organizing drive into a remarkable first contract that was unanimously ratified by the new members. The freshly minted bargaining unit includes 43 members who maintain heavy equipment for the United States Army and are employed by VSE Corporation in Hamlin, IL.

2013 Per Capita Tax Announced

The Grand Lodge monthly per capita tax for 2013 will be $32.30 reports General Secretary-Treasurer Robert Roach, Jr., in a letter to all IAM District and Local Lodges. The figure was calculated using the formula approved by Delegates to the 2008 Grand Lodge Convention.

Hurricane Relief Available for IAM Members

Members helping members in times of need is a strong tradition in the Machinists union, and the recent string of snow, wind and rain storms across the East coast generated by Hurricane Sandy has caused widespread damage. IAM members adversely affected by severe weather like Hurricanes Sandy and Isaac, or other natural disasters, can get help from the IAM’s Disaster Relief Fund.

Judge Upholds Organizing Rights at South Carolina Plant

The Boeing Company violated the National Labor Relations Act when a manager at the plane maker’s Charleston, SC assembly plant told a Boeing employee he could not discuss union-related matters during working hours. Administrative Law Judge William Nelson Cates ruled that Boeing could not bar employees from talking about union matters during working time if the company allowed discussion of non-union matters during working time.

UCube’s GOTV Message: Bee Mad and Vote

Vote as if your life depended on it – because it does, said the Union of Unemployed (UCubed) in a recent message to its more than 4,000 job activists and 130,000 Facebook fans.

Boeing Promotes Mexico Outsourcing Conference

Boeing’s director of Supply Chain Strategy and Supplier Management, Patrick McKenna, is pressuring vendors and suppliers to attend a workshop in Chicago where they would be taught how to do business in Mexico.

Deadline Near in Raytheon Missile Systems Negotiations

Contract talks between IAM Local 933 representatives and Raytheon Missile Systems are in the final stretch with the contract set to expire on October 28, 2012. Talks have been ongoing since early this month when Western Territory General Vice President Gary Allen attended the official opening of negotiations.

Trumka Speaks out on ‘Grand Bargain’

In an op-ed published on Politico, AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka argues “Americans Don’t Want ‘Grand Bargain.’”

ITF Elects GVP Pantoja to Serve on Executive Board

Sito Pantoja, IAM General Vice President for Transportation, was elected to serve on the Executive Board of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), during its meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Canadian Retirement Home Workers Ratify First Contract

More than three dozen retirement home workers in Orleans, Ottawa, Canada, ratified their first collective bargaining agreement.

2012 Photo Contest Winners Announced

Results of the 2012 IAM Photo Contest are in and the 2013 Calendar is rolling off the presses.

October 2012 IAM Journal Now Available

The October 2012 IAM Journal is now available on the IAM App.

President Vows Sequestration ‘Will Not Happen’

The third and final debate between President Barack Obama and GOP challenger Mitt Romney included a surprise declaration from the president that billions in across-the-board budget cuts known as sequestration, will not take place.

Ten-Year Pact Saves Hundreds of West Coast Smelter Jobs

After more than a decade of negotiations, an aluminum smelter plant and the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) in Ferndale, WA, have reached a 10-year deal that will save 625 jobs at IAM Local 2379.

GOP Intensifies Voter Suppression Campaign

November 6th is only two weeks away – which means GOP lawmakers, their super PACS, corporate donors and operatives are pulling out every trick in the book to suppress as many Democratic votes as possible. Experts say voters can expect the dirty tactics to only get worse the closer we get to Election Day.

UCubed Campaign Triggers Super PAC Attack Ad

The Union of Unemployed (UCubed) is not the least bit flattered by a copycat attack ad released by a Republican super PAC, the Congressional Leadership Fund (CLF). The ad targeting Ohio Democrat Betty Sutton borrows heavily from UCubed’s revolutionary social media campaign, BEE MAD @ THE GOP, which has recently gone viral with over two million video downloads on Facebook.

Canada Risks Passenger Safety with Airport Screener Cuts

“Our federal government is rolling the dice with the safety of the travelling public in this country by reducing the number of airport security screeners across Canada,” said Canadian GVP Dave Ritchie. “The lineups at airport security check-ins across the country are already too long because there aren’t enough screeners and to cut that number by 15 per cent will be devastating and so will the consequences.

Hawker’s Deal with China ‘Helicopter King’ Collapses

The controversial $1.79 billion proposal to sell Wichita, KS-based Hawker Beechcraft to a Beijing-based firm headed by a shadowy figure known as “China’s Helicopter King” has fallen through, according to an announcement today by Hawker CEO Steve Miller.

Local 1998 Prepares for Negotiations with BAE Systems