Laura Ewan has been named as the new Legislative Chief Counsel for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), with her appointment effective January 1, 2026. The decision was announced by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
In her new position, Ewan will support both the legislative activities of the IAM’s Legislative Department and the organization’s political action committee, MNPL.
“Laura Ewan is a relentless advocate for IAM members and a highly effective labor lawyer,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her leadership strengthens our Political and Legislative Department, which sets the standard for how unions win legislative fights, protect workers’ rights, and build lasting political power for working families.”
Ewan brings significant experience in labor law to this role. She began her legal career at a major union-side law firm in the Pacific Northwest, eventually becoming a partner. Since joining the IAM Legal Department in 2019 as Associate General Counsel, she has represented both public- and private-sector unions as well as individual workers in litigation matters. Her background includes court cases, arbitration proceedings, and class action wage-and-hour lawsuits that have contributed to improving labor standards in Washington state.
IAM National Political and Legislative Director Hasan Solomon commented on Ewan’s appointment: “Laura has a deep passion for the IAM and a clear understanding of how the law can be used to expand and defend our members’ power. Her legal insight, attention to detail, and experience working alongside our legislative and MNPL teams make her an invaluable asset to our political and legislative work.”
During her time with IAM, Ewan has provided legal counsel across various union departments while assisting with legislative initiatives. Her responsibilities have included drafting legislation, testifying before government committees on bills supported by IAM, submitting legal briefs to protect members’ rights, and ensuring compliance with campaign finance laws for MNPL.
Ewan holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Notre Dame Law School where she served as editor-in-chief of the Journal of College and University Law. She also earned both master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Florida State University.
