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MILWAUKEE, Jan. 6, 2025 — Approximately 56 Science museum workers at Discovery World in Milwaukee have overwhelmingly voted to join the IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers). This vote marks a significant victory in their campaign for fair compensation, a clear path to career advancement, and a real voice on the job.
“Congratulations to the Discovery World workers on making their voices heard and officially winning their union election,” said IAM Midwest Territory Special Representative Adante Balke. “These dedicated employees are coming together to demand respect, fair wages, better benefits, and greater transparency in promotions and hiring. By standing united, they are now preparing to bargain collectively for a stronger future.”
The newly unionized Discovery World group will now focus on negotiating a first contract to secure improvements in wages and benefits, expand career opportunities, and ensure they can raise workplace concerns without fear of retaliation. Collective bargaining gives them a protected, democratic voice in decisions that directly impact their jobs and livelihoods.
During the organizing drive, Discovery World workers also raised serious concerns about management’s conduct, including the use of anti-worker tactics aimed at discouraging employees from exercising their legally protected right to form a union, as well as the termination of an outspoken union supporter.
The employees at Discovery World are crucial to the museum’s mission, bringing creativity, skill, and passion to interactive exhibits, special events, and education programs. Families, students, and visitors benefit daily from their dedication, which helps make it a world-class destination.
“The IAM Union is proud to welcome these workers into the IAM family,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “We would like to give special thanks to Milwaukee Common Council Members Alderman Alex Brower, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderperson JoCasta Zamarripa, and Alderman Robert J. Bauman for standing in solidarity with Discovery World workers and supporting their right to organize. We stand ready to support them as they move toward a strong first contract that reflects their value, protects their rights, and ensures Discovery World remains a place where workers and the community can thrive together.”
The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.
