Machinists Union Named as “Top 500 Most Influential” on Capitol Hill

Machinists Union Named as “Top 500 Most Influential” on Capitol Hill

Machinists Union Named as “Top 500 Most Influential” on Capitol Hill

Machinists Union Named as “Top 500 Most Influential” on Capitol Hill

IAM141.org

WASHINGTON — Hasan Solomon, IAM National Political and Legislative Director, has been named one of Washington D.C.’s 500 most influential people of 2024 by the Washingtonian magazine. This recognition highlights Solomon’s and the IAM’s role in advocating for workers’ rights and influencing labor policy on Capitol Hill.

Solomon leads the Machinists Union’s political and legislative strategies, working to advance the interests of IAM members and protect their rights. His efforts involve coordinating the union’s activities on Capitol Hill, where he has gained a reputation as a leading advocate for labor.

The Washingtonian’s list includes experts and advocates who play key roles in policy debates outside the government. Selection is based on subject-matter expertise, understanding of how Washington works, and relevance to current policy issues. The list focuses on individuals who influence policy through their knowledge and actions.

Solomon began his career with the IAM in 1999 as a law clerk and has since held various roles, including Associate General Counsel and National Legislative Representative. His responsibilities now include directing the union’s legislative agenda and managing its political actions. He has also served on several boards and received awards such as “Labor Leader of the Year” from the National Black State Legislators Association and “Young Lawyer of the Year” from the Washington Bar Association.

Recent legislative work by the IAM includes involvement in the FAA Reauthorization Act (H.R. 3935), which reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration through 2028. This act addresses air traffic controller staffing, worker protections, and improvements in aviation safety. According to IAM International President Brian Bryant, the bill incorporates several provisions the union advocated for, which will benefit air transport workers.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the IAM played a critical role in ensuring fair treatment of airline workers under the CARES Act. When United Airlines sought $5 billion in CARES Act funds, the union challenged the airline’s plan to reduce pay and benefits for unionized employees. This challenge led to the withdrawal of the plan for union members, though similar cuts affected non-union staff.

Union members will have the chance to hear from Hasan Solomon at the upcoming Machinists Union District 141 Committee Conference, where he will be a featured speaker. This event will provide updates on the union’s legislative efforts and future plans.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Machinists Union Named as “Top 500 Most Influential” on Capitol Hill

6 June 2024

WASHINGTON — Hasan Solomon, IAM National Political and Legislative Director, has been named one of Washington D.C.’s 500 most influential people of 2024 by the Washingtonian magazine. This recognition highlights Solomon’s and the IAM’s role in advocating for workers’ rights and influencing labor policy on Capitol Hill.

Solomon leads the Machinists Union’s political and legislative strategies, working to advance the interests of IAM members and protect their rights. His efforts involve coordinating the union’s activities on Capitol Hill, where he has gained a reputation as a leading advocate for labor.

The Washingtonian’s list includes experts and advocates who play key roles in policy debates outside the government. Selection is based on subject-matter expertise, understanding of how Washington works, and relevance to current policy issues. The list focuses on individuals who influence policy through their knowledge and actions.

Solomon began his career with the IAM in 1999 as a law clerk and has since held various roles, including Associate General Counsel and National Legislative Representative. His responsibilities now include directing the union’s legislative agenda and managing its political actions. He has also served on several boards and received awards such as “Labor Leader of the Year” from the National Black State Legislators Association and “Young Lawyer of the Year” from the Washington Bar Association.

Recent legislative work by the IAM includes involvement in the FAA Reauthorization Act (H.R. 3935), which reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration through 2028. This act addresses air traffic controller staffing, worker protections, and improvements in aviation safety. According to IAM International President Brian Bryant, the bill incorporates several provisions the union advocated for, which will benefit air transport workers.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the IAM played a critical role in ensuring fair treatment of airline workers under the CARES Act. When United Airlines sought $5 billion in CARES Act funds, the union challenged the airline’s plan to reduce pay and benefits for unionized employees. This challenge led to the withdrawal of the plan for union members, though similar cuts affected non-union staff.

Union members will have the chance to hear from Hasan Solomon at the upcoming Machinists Union District 141 Committee Conference, where he will be a featured speaker. This event will provide updates on the union’s legislative efforts and future plans.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Machinists Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

Machinists Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

IAM Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

IAM Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

IAM141.org

WASHINGTON DC – Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has been appointed by President Biden to serve on the President’s Export Council. This U.S. governmental organization is the principal national advisory committee on international trade, offering a forum for private-sector business and labor leaders, members of Congress, and other administration officials to discuss and resolve trade-related issues.

Bryant, a Maine native and shipbuilder at Bath Iron Works, will represent the voices of 600,000 active and retired IAM members across the aerospace, defense, airline, manufacturing, and other industries in White House trade discussions. He also serves as Vice Chair of the AFL-CIO’s Industrial Union Council, on the Executive Committee of the IndustriALL Global Union, and on the AFL-CIO’s Executive Council.

“Our nation’s trade policies directly affect the livelihoods of our members in so many critical industries,” said Bryant. “I’m extremely thankful to President Biden for nominating me to help ensure that workers have a prominent seat in every trade discussion that affects our jobs, supply chains, and national security.”

The President’s Export Council has recently renegotiated the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The council’s advocacy ensured that the agreement included stronger labor protections for American workers and enforcement mechanisms, leading to better working conditions and higher wages for workers in the United States, particularly in the manufacturing and automotive sectors.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest unions in North America, representing nearly 600,000 active and retired members in manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Machinists Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

3 June 2024

WASHINGTON DC – Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has been appointed by President Biden to serve on the President’s Export Council. This U.S. governmental organization is the principal national advisory committee on international trade, offering a forum for private-sector business and labor leaders, members of Congress, and other administration officials to discuss and resolve trade-related issues.

Bryant, a Maine native and shipbuilder at Bath Iron Works, will represent the voices of 600,000 active and retired IAM members across the aerospace, defense, airline, manufacturing, and other industries in White House trade discussions. He also serves as Vice Chair of the AFL-CIO’s Industrial Union Council, on the Executive Committee of the IndustriALL Global Union, and on the AFL-CIO’s Executive Council.

“Our nation’s trade policies directly affect the livelihoods of our members in so many critical industries,” said Bryant. “I’m extremely thankful to President Biden for nominating me to help ensure that workers have a prominent seat in every trade discussion that affects our jobs, supply chains, and national security.”

The President’s Export Council has recently renegotiated the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The council’s advocacy ensured that the agreement included stronger labor protections for American workers and enforcement mechanisms, leading to better working conditions and higher wages for workers in the United States, particularly in the manufacturing and automotive sectors.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest unions in North America, representing nearly 600,000 active and retired members in manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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United Contract Negotiations Update

29 May 2024

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Last week, we met with United Airlines to set logistics, protocols, and scheduling for our upcoming contract negotiations.

Our members have been clear. We are overdue for a comprehensive contract negotiation under the rules set forth under Section Six of the Railway Labor Act.

Both sides will form subcommittees to work on specific language for each Article across all seven contracts: Fleet Service, Passenger Service, Storekeepers, Maintenance Instructors, Security Officers, Central Load Planners, and Fleet Technical Instructors and Related.

We have agreed to meet one week each month to exchange proposals, starting with Article One. The first sessions are scheduled for the weeks of June 24th, July 15th, and August 12th.

Setting these ground rules is crucial for ensuring a structured and efficient negotiation process. We will provide an update after each session.

In solidarity,

Your Negotiating Committee
Olu Ajetomobi
Joe Bartz
Jill Hazamy
Victor Hernandez
Barb Martin
Terry Stansbury
Faysal Silwany
Erik Stenberg
Sue Weisner

Michael G Klemm
President and Directing General Chair, 
District 141,
International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers

Recording Secretaries: Please print and post on all IAMAW bulletin Boards.

Honoring Their Sacrifice

Honoring Their Sacrifice

Honoring Their Sacrifice

Honoring Their Sacrifice

IAM141.org

Dear IAM Family,

This weekend, we remember those who have given their lives for our freedoms.

For more than 136 years, IAM members have been integral parts of our communities. They have fought—and died—in every major American military mission since our founding in 1888. As a union with deep ties to our military, we will always remember, mourn, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

That’s why we provide best-in-class services to our military veterans, built an IAM monument to honor our military, and are incredibly proud that IAM members serve the interests of our armed forces each and every day.

This Memorial Day – and every day – we remember those who have given their lives for all of us.

Sincerely,

Brian Bryant
International President

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Honoring Their Sacrifice

26 May 2024

Dear IAM Family,

This weekend, we remember those who have given their lives for our freedoms.

For more than 136 years, IAM members have been integral parts of our communities. They have fought—and died—in every major American military mission since our founding in 1888. As a union with deep ties to our military, we will always remember, mourn, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

That’s why we provide best-in-class services to our military veterans, built an IAM monument to honor our military, and are incredibly proud that IAM members serve the interests of our armed forces each and every day.

This Memorial Day – and every day – we remember those who have given their lives for all of us.

Sincerely,

Brian Bryant
International President

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Machinists Union Applauds the Passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill

Machinists Union Applauds the Passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill

Machinists Union Applauds the Passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill

Machinists Union Applauds the Passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill

IAM141.org

WASHINGTON — The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, H.R. 3935, reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through 2028. This comprehensive bill, led by Representative Sam Graves (R-MO), covers airport planning, development, facilities, equipment, and operations. Key provisions include increasing air traffic controller hiring targets, creating a workforce development program for aviation professionals, and enhancing protections for airline workers. The bill has attracted widespread bipartisan support, reflecting its critical importance to the aviation industry.

IAM International President Brian Bryant emphasized the bill’s importance, stating, “While the bill, H.R. 3935, does not address all the IAM’s demands in an FAA reauthorization package, it does include several of our requested provisions and will ultimately help improve the safety and working conditions of our air transport members.”

The bill addresses a wide range of issues crucial to the aviation industry. It directs the FAA to hire and train more air traffic controllers to fill the current gap of 3,000 vacancies. It also mandates increased access to training simulators across air traffic control towers nationwide. To enhance runway safety, the bill requires the installation of additional runway technology at medium and large hub airports.

Passenger protections are also a significant focus of the legislation. The bill mandates that the Department of Transportation (DOT) establish standards to ensure the aircraft boarding and deplaning process is accessible for individuals with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs. Additionally, airlines are required to seat young children next to an accompanying adult without charging extra fees if adjacent seats are available.

The bill further enhances protections for airline workers by expanding legal protections to ground-based employees, such as gate and check-in agents, and improving self-defense training for flight attendants. Bryant noted, “This legislation offers some positive means to ensure the safety and well-being of workers and passengers. For instance, we’ve witnessed the increase in passenger attacks towards aviation workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve also witnessed the string of tragic accidents and fatalities of ramp workers like in April 2023 when an American Airlines’ ramp worker died while working on the tarmac at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Austin, Texas. Policy changes are needed and this FAA reauthorization legislation, while not perfect, offers many much-needed positive changes for passenger and worker safety and helps transform this vital industry into the future.”

It also includes provisions for increasing cockpit voice recording to 25 hours, enhancing oversight of aircraft production, and ensuring automatic cash refunds for canceled or substantially delayed flights.

The bill also provides for the establishment of an FAA Ombudsman to coordinate responses to issues related to aircraft certifications, pilot certificates, and operational approvals. The legislation also mandates a peer review of current aviation whistleblower protections and requires the FAA to work directly with the Department of Labor on whistleblower cases.

Now that the bill has passed in the House, it will head to President Joe Biden for his signature. Once signed into law, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act will provide the necessary framework and funding to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the U.S. aviation industry through 2028.

Overall, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act aims to improve aviation safety, enhance protections for passengers and airline workers, and invest in airport and air travel infrastructure nationwide.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Machinists Union Applauds the Passage of the FAA Reauthorization Bill

16 May 2024

WASHINGTON — The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, H.R. 3935, reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through 2028. This comprehensive bill, led by Representative Sam Graves (R-MO), covers airport planning, development, facilities, equipment, and operations. Key provisions include increasing air traffic controller hiring targets, creating a workforce development program for aviation professionals, and enhancing protections for airline workers. The bill has attracted widespread bipartisan support, reflecting its critical importance to the aviation industry.

IAM International President Brian Bryant emphasized the bill’s importance, stating, “While the bill, H.R. 3935, does not address all the IAM’s demands in an FAA reauthorization package, it does include several of our requested provisions and will ultimately help improve the safety and working conditions of our air transport members.”

The bill addresses a wide range of issues crucial to the aviation industry. It directs the FAA to hire and train more air traffic controllers to fill the current gap of 3,000 vacancies. It also mandates increased access to training simulators across air traffic control towers nationwide. To enhance runway safety, the bill requires the installation of additional runway technology at medium and large hub airports.

Passenger protections are also a significant focus of the legislation. The bill mandates that the Department of Transportation (DOT) establish standards to ensure the aircraft boarding and deplaning process is accessible for individuals with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs. Additionally, airlines are required to seat young children next to an accompanying adult without charging extra fees if adjacent seats are available.

The bill further enhances protections for airline workers by expanding legal protections to ground-based employees, such as gate and check-in agents, and improving self-defense training for flight attendants. Bryant noted, “This legislation offers some positive means to ensure the safety and well-being of workers and passengers. For instance, we’ve witnessed the increase in passenger attacks towards aviation workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve also witnessed the string of tragic accidents and fatalities of ramp workers like in April 2023 when an American Airlines’ ramp worker died while working on the tarmac at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Austin, Texas. Policy changes are needed and this FAA reauthorization legislation, while not perfect, offers many much-needed positive changes for passenger and worker safety and helps transform this vital industry into the future.”

It also includes provisions for increasing cockpit voice recording to 25 hours, enhancing oversight of aircraft production, and ensuring automatic cash refunds for canceled or substantially delayed flights.

The bill also provides for the establishment of an FAA Ombudsman to coordinate responses to issues related to aircraft certifications, pilot certificates, and operational approvals. The legislation also mandates a peer review of current aviation whistleblower protections and requires the FAA to work directly with the Department of Labor on whistleblower cases.

Now that the bill has passed in the House, it will head to President Joe Biden for his signature. Once signed into law, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act will provide the necessary framework and funding to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the U.S. aviation industry through 2028.

Overall, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act aims to improve aviation safety, enhance protections for passengers and airline workers, and invest in airport and air travel infrastructure nationwide.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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The Dawn of the Machinists Union

The Dawn of the Machinists Union

The Dawn of the Machinists Union

The Dawn of the Machinists Union

IAM141.org

In the smoky workshops of late 19th century America, a revolution was brewing. The Industrial Age, with its booming factories and powerful railroads, had brought both progress and hardship. While innovation flourished, so did worker exploitation. It was against this backdrop that a small group of machinists in Atlanta, Georgia, took a stand for themselves and their fellows, sparking the birth of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), a labor union that would leave an indelible mark on American history.

The year was 1888. Thomas W. Talbot, a skilled railroad machinist, witnessed firsthand the plight of his colleagues. Wages were slashed, working conditions were grueling, and job security was nonexistent. Having previously belonged to the Knights of Labor, a broader labor organization, Talbot believed a more focused approach was needed. He envisioned a union specifically for machinists, one that could effectively address their unique challenges.

On May 5th, 1888, with the resolve of those facing an uphill battle, Talbot and 18 other machinists gathered in a locomotive pit, a symbolic location for their clandestine meeting. This makeshift conference room became the birthplace of the Order of United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers, the precursor to the IAMAW.

The fledgling union’s goals were clear: resist wage cuts, secure better working conditions, and establish a safety net for members through unemployment, illness, and accident benefits. It also aimed to elevate the status of machinists, recognizing their skilled craft and demanding fair compensation.

However, the path wouldn’t be easy. The late 19th century was a period of fierce anti-union sentiment. Powerful industrialists saw unions as a threat to their control and wielded their influence to suppress them. Early strikes were often met with violence and strikebreakers. The fledgling union faced constant challenges in securing recognition and bargaining rights from employers.

Despite the obstacles, the Order of United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers persevered. They adopted a motto – “Organization, Cooperation, Education” – reflecting their commitment to building a strong worker base, fostering solidarity, and promoting skills development. This combination of activism and education proved to be a winning formula.

Within a year, the organization held its first convention in Atlanta, Georgia, changing its name to the National Association of Machinists (NAM). The convention established a formal structure, including elected officers and local chapters, laying the groundwork for a national organization.

By the 1890s, the NAM was expanding its reach beyond railroads, attracting machinists from various industries, including manufacturing and shipbuilding. This growth necessitated a name change again, and in 1891, the organization became the International Association of Machinists (IAM).

The IAM’s early victories, including securing the first ever union contract with a major railroad in 1892, proved its effectiveness. This success inspired other skilled workers to organize, contributing to the broader labor movement.

The story of the Machinists Union’s founding is a testament to the power of collective action. It’s a reminder that the fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and worker dignity is a continuous struggle. From those humble beginnings in a locomotive pit, the IAMAW has grown into a powerful organization representing hundreds of thousands of workers across North American industries. As the organization continues to evolve and address new challenges, the spirit of those 19 machinists who dared to fight for a better future remains a cornerstone of the IAMAW’s legacy.

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The Dawn of the Machinists Union

14 May 2024

In the smoky workshops of late 19th century America, a revolution was brewing. The Industrial Age, with its booming factories and powerful railroads, had brought both progress and hardship. While innovation flourished, so did worker exploitation. It was against this backdrop that a small group of machinists in Atlanta, Georgia, took a stand for themselves and their fellows, sparking the birth of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), a labor union that would leave an indelible mark on American history.

The year was 1888. Thomas W. Talbot, a skilled railroad machinist, witnessed firsthand the plight of his colleagues. Wages were slashed, working conditions were grueling, and job security was nonexistent. Having previously belonged to the Knights of Labor, a broader labor organization, Talbot believed a more focused approach was needed. He envisioned a union specifically for machinists, one that could effectively address their unique challenges.

On May 5th, 1888, with the resolve of those facing an uphill battle, Talbot and 18 other machinists gathered in a locomotive pit, a symbolic location for their clandestine meeting. This makeshift conference room became the birthplace of the Order of United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers, the precursor to the IAMAW.

The fledgling union’s goals were clear: resist wage cuts, secure better working conditions, and establish a safety net for members through unemployment, illness, and accident benefits. It also aimed to elevate the status of machinists, recognizing their skilled craft and demanding fair compensation.

However, the path wouldn’t be easy. The late 19th century was a period of fierce anti-union sentiment. Powerful industrialists saw unions as a threat to their control and wielded their influence to suppress them. Early strikes were often met with violence and strikebreakers. The fledgling union faced constant challenges in securing recognition and bargaining rights from employers.

Despite the obstacles, the Order of United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers persevered. They adopted a motto – “Organization, Cooperation, Education” – reflecting their commitment to building a strong worker base, fostering solidarity, and promoting skills development. This combination of activism and education proved to be a winning formula.

Within a year, the organization held its first convention in Atlanta, Georgia, changing its name to the National Association of Machinists (NAM). The convention established a formal structure, including elected officers and local chapters, laying the groundwork for a national organization.

By the 1890s, the NAM was expanding its reach beyond railroads, attracting machinists from various industries, including manufacturing and shipbuilding. This growth necessitated a name change again, and in 1891, the organization became the International Association of Machinists (IAM).

The IAM’s early victories, including securing the first ever union contract with a major railroad in 1892, proved its effectiveness. This success inspired other skilled workers to organize, contributing to the broader labor movement.

The story of the Machinists Union’s founding is a testament to the power of collective action. It’s a reminder that the fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and worker dignity is a continuous struggle. From those humble beginnings in a locomotive pit, the IAMAW has grown into a powerful organization representing hundreds of thousands of workers across North American industries. As the organization continues to evolve and address new challenges, the spirit of those 19 machinists who dared to fight for a better future remains a cornerstone of the IAMAW’s legacy.

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