The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) New Jersey State Council (NJSC) convened its annual meeting, gathering more than 100 union leaders, political advocates, and members from across New Jersey. The event focused on advancing pro-worker legislation and preparing for the upcoming 2025 gubernatorial election.
Cristino Vilorio, President of the NJSC and IAM District 15 Area Director, led the meeting. Attendees heard from several IAM Executive Council members including International President Brian Bryant, Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett.
“Our union’s strength lies in our ability to organize, mobilize, and legislate,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The work being done here in New Jersey is a model for building power at the state level and fighting for legislation like fair wages for IAM auto technicians.”
Richie Johnsen provided updates about leading contracts within the airline industry to delegates. Jody Bennett highlighted the importance of supporting the union’s Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) PAC to maintain legislative efforts nationwide.
David Sullivan began the second day with a call for unity among members. Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff, discussed how programs like Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS) contribute to strengthening the union.
“We can’t let hate in politics divide our nation,” said Sullivan. “We must stay focused on fighting for a stronger labor movement, and that fight starts here in New Jersey.”
Hasan Solomon, IAM National Legislative and Political Director, reminded attendees about the significance of political engagement. He stated: “In 2025, your voice can be heard LOUD and CLEAR by getting out the vote for IAM endorsed candidates.”
The council presented its annual Frank Darcy Award for Leadership—named after lifelong trade unionist Frank Darcy—to retired TCU/IAM National Vice President Billy DeCarlo. The award recognizes outstanding leadership among IAM members.
Elected officials speaking at the event included Rep. Bonnie Coleman (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., and congressional candidate Katie Brennan.
A major legislative achievement was celebrated: passage of the Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act (A4380/S3309). This law guarantees fair wages for automotive dealership mechanics statewide after receiving unanimous bipartisan support in both chambers—a result attributed to NJSCM lobbying efforts. The new law is expected to improve working conditions for hundreds of skilled automotive technicians represented by IAM throughout New Jersey.
“With a critical election season ahead, the IAM New Jersey State Council is laser-focused on supporting candidates who fight for working families,” said Vilorio. “We are ready to work to make Mikie Sherrill our next governor and elect pro-labor candidates across the state. I want to thank everyone for helping make this year’s state council meeting a success and it was exciting to celebrate the passage of legislation for our members working at automobile dealerships across New Jersey.”
NJSC represents over 20,000 workers in New Jersey through advocacy efforts designed to benefit working families across multiple industries.
