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The IAM Union is proud to welcome approximately 80 new members from UNIFI at the Fresno (Calif.) Yosemite International Airport, who voted to join the IAM Air Transport Territory on Dec. 3. The new members delivered a decisive mandate for representation.
UNIFI Fresno employees, who assist with ground handling and aviation services, cited a lack of meaningful raises, the absence of an established pay scale, and the lack of any work rules or benefits as key drivers behind their decision.
Before the campaign began, UNIFI employees were earning $16.50 per hour, California’s minimum wage. Workers reported that the only pay increases they ever received were tied to state-mandated minimum wage hikes. However, after management became aware that union authorization cards were circulating, the company abruptly announced a wage increase to $18 per hour on Friday, Aug. 29, effective just days later on Sept. 1 – an unsuccessful attempt to counter the organizing effort.
In addition to stagnant wages, workers cited management’s practice of creating work rules “as they go,” leaving employees without stability, clear expectations, or recourse. The lack of benefits and structured policies intensified their desire for strong representation.
“Congratulations to District 142, Local 1782 and especially our new members at UNIFI Fresno,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Bringing UNIFI Fresno into our union is another powerful step in strengthening worker power across the industry. We’re proud to welcome them into the IAM family.”
“The vote in Fresno sends a clear message, Air Transport workers want the power and protection that only the IAM can deliver,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. “We’re honored to represent these new members and are ready to get to work on their first contract.”
The path to victory came with its share of challenges. The federal government shutdown delayed the representation election, initially scheduled for Oct. 14-15, pushing the vote to Dec. 2-3. Combined with the high turnover typical of vendor companies like UNIFI, the Organizing Committee had to work through a shrinking workforce and shifting conditions. Despite these obstacles, UNIFI Fresno workers remained committed to winning a collective voice.
One key to the campaign was Local 1782 President Frances Finau for a contact within Fresno Southwest Airlines. President Finau connected the team with Aakash Narayan, a Fresno Southwest Airlines Steward and proud Local 1782 member, who served as the lead organizer on the ground. His dedication and connection with the workforce were critical to maintaining support through delays and turnover.
“Being part of this campaign and standing alongside the UNIFI Fresno team has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” said Narayan. “These workers showed incredible courage and unity from day one. Even with delays and challenges, they never lost sight of what they deserved, a real voice, stability, and respect on the job. I’m proud to have helped them join the IAM family, and this victory belongs entirely to their determination.”
District 142 General Chair Boris Kochanoff, the assigned representative for the new UNIFI Fresno members, is already partnering with the District 142 Communications Team to launch a comprehensive survey on workplace issues and contract proposals. This will give new members their first opportunity to shape priorities as they prepare for their first contract bargaining.
