IAM Midwest Territory staff gathered at the Local 701 Union and Training Facility in Aurora, Illinois, for a conference focused on preparing union representatives for ongoing changes in the labor environment.
Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, welcomed attendees and spoke about the broader mission of the union. “As a union we stand for more than just the work we do,” said Cicinelli. “We stand for solidarity, mutual respect, and fairness for all our members. Each of you play a vital role in creating a culture of strength and support that echoes throughout the workplace. You are not just employees, you are leaders, advocates, and the driving force behind the progress we’ve made and the progress we will continue to make.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant addressed participants to express appreciation for their service and to underscore priorities within the organization. “I wish you the best this week; a lot of great items that are going to be covered in addition to other critical items,” said Bryant. “We talk a lot about organizing, and that’s important, but most important is the servicing of our members. We can never lose sight of that. Servicing is critical, and it’s on us from the Executive Council to make sure that we give you all the support, tools and knowledge to be able to be successful leaders out there. Because when everyone’s successful in this room, the whole union is successful.”
Bryant also pointed out recent organizing campaigns such as Tempus AI’s first-contract win and mentioned ongoing actions like District 837’s strike at Boeing as examples of current efforts within the territory.
Carla Siegel, IAM General Counsel, provided an overview regarding legal matters related to representation and strikes while also discussing how decisions by bodies like the National Labor Relations Board influence daily activities for union representatives.
Paul Kendall, IAM Assistant Secretary, reviewed financial management responsibilities within unions and encouraged staff involvement in helping members take on leadership roles such as Secretary-Treasurer positions at local levels.
The conference included training sessions led by several officials: William LePinske introduced SharePoint tools; Tim Hight from IAM William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center discussed virtual membership meetings; Kevin Murch covered topics including podcasts and political engagement with members; Jeff McLeod offered detailed instruction on negotiations along with strike preparation procedures.
Executive Council members present were IAM International President Brian Bryant; Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett; Western Territory General Vice President Robert Martinez; and Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen.
