IAM Files for Representation Election for 350 Swissport Workers
Organizing
8 March 2022
The IAM this morning filed a petition at the National Labor Relation Board (NLRB) in Newark, NJ, to represent approximately 350 Swissport cargo workers. The workers employed at the Newark Liberty Airport facility have sought IAM representation for almost three years.
“I’d like to congratulate the Swissport workers on filing for an election,” said IAM District 141 President and Directing General Chairman Mike Klemm. “It’s been a long road. I truly admire the resolve of these workers and look forward to them joining the IAM family.”
“Membership Services Director Frank Giannola has provided the leadership and support Swissport workers have needed to bring this campaign to a vote,” continued Klemm. “His team of District 141 Educators which include Carmelo Benedicto and James Wells worked hard to keep this campaign alive and never gave up on these workers.” Throughout this process, the Machinists Union Transportation Department under Chief of Staff Richie Johnsen has been an invaluable resource. Along with unwavering help from James Carlson, Assistant Airline Coordinator at the IAM, we are reaching more workers with a pro-union message, demonstrating the value of collective bargaining to a new generation of working people.
After failing to obtain an election in 2019, the Swissport workers answered the bell during the COVID-19 pandemic, keeping goods and services flowing during the most tumultuous period in airline industry history. And then, in 2021, they recommitted to their campaign for IAM representation.
“I am very happy for the Swissport workers. They have exhibited courage and a steadfast commitment to gaining collective bargaining rights,” said Frank Giannola. “We will see this campaign through with a Yes vote and a strong first contract.”
The NLRB will now review the representation petition, and IAM union leadership expects Swissport workers to deliver a final vote soon.
Related News
Biden’s American Rescue Plan Provides Free COBRA Coverage
[supsystic-social-sharing id='3']President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act provides 100 percent health COBRA coverage to employees and their family members. Many thanks to the Machinists & Aerospace journalists at GOIAM.org who wrote and originally published this...
Letters: Why We Passed the PRO Act
[supsystic-social-sharing id='3']Congressman Marc Pocan represents Wisconsin's 2nd District, which includes the capitol of Madison. A union member himself, he is among the strongest supporters of working people in Congress, and a leading proponent of the PRO Act. The...
141 Report: Bill Huston and Capital Lodge 1759
Brother Bill Huston has worked in a variety of functions both below and above the wing in his 51-year career at United Airlines. He started working on the ramp in Norfolk while he was attending college and later transferred to customer service at IAD. In this 141...