Members of IAM Union Local S6 at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works (BIW) in Bath, Maine, recently held a gathering to honor Amber Czech, a 20-year-old welder and educator who was killed by a coworker on November 11, 2025, in Cokato, Minnesota.
Czech was recognized for her welding skills and for teaching the trade at her former high school during her days off. The event organized by Local S6 highlighted the need to address workplace violence and emphasized the importance of protecting women working in skilled trades.
Megan McCandless, a BIW welder and member of IAM Union Local S6, led the tribute. Members gathered at the BIW shipyard to show support for women in these professions. A video created by General Dynamics Bath Iron Works featured remarks from McCandless.
“I thought we had a responsibility through the company and the Union to shed light and recognize what happened in honor of Amber,” said McCandless. “We had women from the company and the Union coming together in honor of Amber Czech. It is a woman’s issue, and it is so important to have each other’s back in the workplace.”
IAM Union International President and Local S6 member Brian Bryant commented: “Amber was one of us, a young, talented welder who loved her craft and her community. Her life was brutally stolen. This kind of workplace violence is a horror no family or coworker should ever have to endure. The IAM and Local S6 stand united in saying it will never be tolerated. We owe it to Amber, and to every worker, to fight for dignity, safety, and respect on the job.”
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President and Local S6 member, added: “Only six percent of women are welders in the U.S. trades workforce, which leaves far too many feeling isolated and vulnerable. Amber should have had a long, successful career. The Eastern Territory is committed to ensuring that no worker ever feels isolated, threatened, or unsafe. Solidarity means stepping up for one another, and we will not fail.”
Chris Williams, President of IAM Union Local S6 stated: “No one should ever come to work fearing violence or harassment. Our union is a family that shows up for each other. This powerful tribute reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting everyone on the shop floor.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired members across industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad transit healthcare automotive throughout North America.
