IAM International President Brian Bryant, who began his career as a pipefitter at Bath Iron Works (BIW) and is a member of Local S6, led a delegation of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) leaders on a tour of the shipyard. The visit highlighted the work of more than 4,000 IAM-represented Local S6 members who are building advanced battleships for the U.S. Navy.
The group included Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, also a former BIW shipbuilder and Local S6 member, along with other General Vice Presidents, Chiefs of Staff from IAM’s Territories, and staff from IAM Headquarters. They toured major buildings at BIW, visited production areas, and boarded a U.S. Navy destroyer that is over 75% complete.
During their visit, the delegation also toured BIW’s training facility. This center recruits and trains individuals from nearby communities—many without prior mechanical experience—to become skilled union shipbuilders.
“This facility is more than a training center – it’s a gateway for working people in Maine to enter a proud trade and build a better life,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “It strengthens the shipyard, our union, and the communities we call home. That’s what the IAM is all about.”
IAM leadership met with Local S6 members on site to observe their skills and teamwork.
“There’s a deep sense of pride and unity here that you can feel the moment you walk through the gates. Local S6 members are carrying forward a tradition of excellence,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, “Now they’re bringing in new talent to strengthen that foundation.”
