The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) New Jersey State Council (NJSC) recently held its annual meeting, bringing together more than 100 union leaders, political advocates, and members from across the state. The focus of the gathering was on advancing pro-worker legislation and preparing for the 2025 gubernatorial election.
The NJSC represents over 20,000 workers in New Jersey. The meeting was led by Cristino Vilorio, President of the NJSC and IAM District 15 Area Director. Delegates 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 shared updates about new contracts in the airline industry that benefit union members (https://x.com/iamairtransport/status/1952436439930560949).
Jody Bennett highlighted the importance of supporting the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) PAC to help continue legislative efforts nationwide.
David Sullivan opened the second day of meetings with a message about unity. Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff, spoke about how programs like Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS) help strengthen 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, emphasized that political engagement is crucial. He told delegates: “In 2025, your voice can be heard LOUD and CLEAR by getting out the vote for IAM endorsed candidates.”
Each year at this event, the Frank Darcy Award is presented to recognize outstanding leadership among IAM members. This year’s award went to retired TCU/IAM National Vice President and Legislative Director Billy DeCarlo. Artie Maratea, TCU/IAM National President, presented the award.
Several elected officials and candidates addressed attendees during the meeting. Speakers included Rep. Bonnie Coleman (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., and Katie Brennan, candidate for Congressional District 32.
A recent legislative achievement celebrated at the event was passage of the Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act (A4380/S3309). This law ensures fair wages for automotive dealership mechanics throughout New Jersey after passing both chambers with unanimous bipartisan support—an outcome credited largely to lobbying by NJSCM members.
IAM continues to represent hundreds of skilled automotive technicians across New Jersey while advocating policies aimed at improving conditions for working families statewide.
“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.”
The NJSCM Executive Board includes Cristino Vilorio as president; Michael Buonpastore as secretary-treasurer; Antony Stevens as executive vice president; Ira Stern as education director; Larry Reeves as vice president of airline coordination; Rich Howell as trustee; Mark Perez as vice president railroad; Robert Trapanese as vice president north; Elizabeth Groner-Rosario as vice president airlines; Bobby Stewart as vice president east; Dave Snead as sergeant-at-arms; Marianne DeSantis as trustee/outreach coordinator; C.A. “Obie” O’Brian as trustee; Ross DeConte as trustee; Carmelo Benedicto as auditor; Andre Robinson as auditor/PA airline coordinator; Bill Imbenba as auditor; Will Josey and Hector Perez as COPE committee persons; Craig Livingston serves as council attorney.
