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
AROUND THE UNION: Huge Investment for IAM Aerospace Workers
Huge Investments for Machinists Union Aerospace WorkersIAM141.org2 February 2022 Qatar Airways announced this week that they would purchase 34 new Boeing 777X freighters and a surprise purchase of Boeing 737 MAX, both of which are built by IAM members. These orders...
141 Report: Safety Director for Hawaiian Airlines, Ku’ulei McGuire
141 Report: Safety Director for Hawaiian Airlines, Ku'ulei McGuireYouTube 4 Februrary 2022 Sister Ku'ulei McGuire joins the 141 Report from Honolulu Hawaii as she talks about her new position as IAM District 141 Safety Director at Hawaiian Airlines. Podcast Host...
The 2022 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Contest is NOW OPEN!
The 2022 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Contest is NOW OPEN!Education1 February 2022Thousands of dollars in scholarship money will go out. Union members and their families can compete for $8,000 in scholarship money through the 2022 Adolph Stutz Memorial...