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IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr has appointed two long-time organizers, Mike Evans and Juan Eldridge, to take on key roles within the IAM Organizing Department. These appointments will build on the IAM’s commitment to empowering workers and growing the union.
IAM Assistant Organizing Director Mike Evans, a 30-year aerospace industry veteran, will be the new IAM Organizing Director, effective Jan. 1, 2024. Evans started with the IAM Organizing Department in 2008. His extensive background and longstanding membership in IAM make him a force in championing workers’ rights.
Evans’s journey within IAM began at Hamilton Standard Windsor Locks, Conn., where he started as a jet fuel control technician. Over the years, he took on various roles, from Shop Steward for Local 743 to chief union safety representative. Evans has been a crucial part of the IAM Organizing Department, leading and winning many campaigns.
With an associate’s degree from Asnuntuck Community College and a bachelor’s degree from the National Labor College, Evans is also an IAM Organizing Apprentice Program graduate, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and development.
“I am truly humbled and excited to step into the role of Organizing Director for the IAM,” said Evans. “Taking on this responsibility is both an honor and a privilege. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the growth and strength of our union, working alongside a dedicated, experienced team of organizers. Our union has a rich history of championing workers’ rights, and I am eager to build upon that legacy. Together, we will ensure that our union remains a powerful force in advancing the interests and well-being of workers everywhere.”
Joining Evans is Juan Eldridge, an IAM Organizing Grand Lodge Representative who will become as IAM Assistant Organizing Director on Jan. 1, 2024. Eldridge’s journey in the aerospace industry and his rich experience in various IAM roles position him as a key figure in driving IAM’s organizing efforts.
Eldridge began at Cessna Aircraft in 1999, where he held roles ranging from sheet metal mechanic to Final Assembly Mechanic. His dedication to workers’ rights led him to become a shop steward for his department at Local 774. Over the years, he took on multiple responsibilities, including organizer, negotiator, union safety advocate, and Assistant Plant Chair.
Eldridge started with the IAM Organizing Department as a Special Representative in 2015. He played a pivotal role in numerous successful organizing campaigns. His expertise extends to the private and federal sectors, allowing him to make valuable contributions to IAM’s diverse campaigns.
“I am honored to be appointed as the new Assistant Director of this amazing department,” said Eldridge. “I look forward to continuing to work with the staff in my expanded role. I am eager to help lead this department, continue growing our density in all agencies and sectors, and continue championing workers’ rights.”
These appointments underscore the IAM’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and influential union dedicated to bettering workers’ lives across industries. Evans and Eldridge bring a wealth of experience, passion and dedication to their respective roles, ensuring that IAM continues to lead in organizing efforts and advocating for the rights of our members.
“Mike and Juan are both highly respected and experienced union organizers,” said Martinez. “They are passionate about helping workers achieve better wages, benefits, working conditions, and a voice in their workplace. This team will be an asset to the IAM Organizing Department and help us grow our union in the coming years.”
Evans will follow in the footsteps of IAM Organizing Director Vinny Addeo, who will become Chief of Staff to the International President on Jan. 1, 2024.
“In my six years as the IAM Organizing Director, both Mike and Juan have clearly demonstrated their leadership abilities in the Organizing Department,” said Addeo. “Not only by their proven track records by leading successful organizing campaigns, but by their mentoring of other less-experienced Organizers, both internally in our department and across the Territories. These appointments are well-deserved and I am confident that this leadership team will take the department to the next level.”
