The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) brought together over 800 delegates from its Air Transport and Rail Divisions for the 2025 IAM Transportation Conference in Las Vegas. The biennial event focused on adapting to changes in the transportation industry, supporting jobs, protecting workers’ rights, and developing future labor leaders.
Operating under the theme “Building a Better Tomorrow,” organizers highlighted the need for collaboration across various departments and organizations to ensure a smooth conference. Delegates included experienced members as well as new voices, reflecting efforts to promote diversity and union solidarity.
IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen announced wage milestones achieved by union contracts: “This year, the top of the scale Southwest customer service agents and American Airlines ramp workers will hit the $40 an hour mark. Top-of-scale aircraft mechanics at American will see over $70 an hour.” Johnsen added, “Those are our contracts, those are IAM contracts. We keep delivering and delivering, but there is much more to do. The FAA Authorization bill [passed by Congress and signed into law in 2024] deserves polite applause for getting done, but it means nothing if they are not implementing what we got them to put in that bill. That’s why we’re ready to keep fighting”.
Edison Fraser, IAM Air Transportation Territory Chief of Staff, spoke about leadership development: “I’ve seen plenty of examples of progress being lost because there was no plan, no leaders, and no mentoring of the next generation. That is why mentorship is so important to GVP Johnsen and me… If we fail to plan, then our plan is to fail and failure is not an option.”
Fraser credited mentors such as Dora Cervantes with shaping his career at IAM. He noted that young workers were invited to participate in this year’s conference for the first time.
Member Education booths provided information on union benefits throughout the conference hall. Delegate Sarah Garcia from Houston Local 811 commented on these efforts: “It’s great to hear what the leaders had to say about the direction they want to take the union in and the changes they want to put in place… I’m just excited to see the work being put in and what will come of it.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant told attendees: “This union is stronger because of your commitment. ‘Building a Better Tomorrow’ is not just a slogan; it’s truly our mission… Please take that message back to your shops.”
General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes reflected on her long-standing family involvement with IAM: “I can tell you, with all the pride in my backbone, that I was raised right. My father stressed union with all his children… And I will always be a loyal member, and I will be a loud yelling, loud thumping, fighting Machinists forever.”
Breakout sessions gave participants opportunities for direct feedback on issues affecting their workplaces.
The Rail Division featured delegates from District 19 and TCU/IAM who reported collaborating with eight other unions on a new contract with Amtrak resulting in record general wage increases totaling 34.1% compounded over its term.
“Together, District 19 and TCU have an opportunity. An opportunity to demand that we bring change… Relentlessly fighting for what is rightfully our future,” said Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to the IAM International President for Rail.
Tom Regan reported ongoing negotiations covering more than 28,000 United Airlines workers since May 2025 as well as joint agreement discussions following Alaska’s merger with Hawaiian Airlines affecting over 7,000 employees. Negotiations continue with United Ground Express representing 6,100 employees; additionally a tentative agreement was reached with McGee Air Services representing 3,000 employees set for ratification in August 2025.
“After 41 years I want to make sure that I give back to this union,” Regan stated. “Remember this – either you stand up and fight or sit down and be quiet. We choose to stand up and fight…”
Experts at the conference outlined resources available through IAM membership which now counts more than 600,000 active and retired members across North America.
