Approximately 80 employees of UNIFI at Fresno Yosemite International Airport have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Air Transport Territory, following a representation election held on December 3. The workers cited stagnant wages, a lack of clear work rules, and no benefits as main reasons for their decision.
Before organizing efforts began, UNIFI employees earned $16.50 per hour, which matches California’s minimum wage. Employees stated that any pay increases they received were only due to state-mandated hikes. After management learned about the unionization campaign, it announced a wage increase to $18 per hour effective September 1. Workers described this move as an unsuccessful attempt to counter their push for union representation.
Employees also pointed to management’s practice of creating work rules “as they go,” which left them without job stability or clear expectations. The absence of benefits and structured workplace policies further contributed to their desire for union representation.
“Congratulations to District 142, Local 1782 and especially our new members at UNIFI Fresno,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Bringing UNIFI Fresno into our union is another powerful step in strengthening worker power across the industry. We’re proud to welcome them into the IAM family.”
“The vote in Fresno sends a clear message, Air Transport workers want the power and protection that only the IAM can deliver,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. “We’re honored to represent these new members and are ready to get to work on their first contract.”
The organizing campaign faced several challenges, including a federal government shutdown that delayed the original election date from October 14-15 to December 2-3. High turnover among vendor companies like UNIFI meant organizers had to adapt quickly as workforce numbers changed during the campaign.
A key factor in maintaining support was Local 1782 President Frances Finau’s connection with Aakash Narayan, a Fresno Southwest Airlines Steward and Local 1782 member who led organizing efforts on-site. “Being part of this campaign and standing alongside the UNIFI Fresno team has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” said Narayan. “These workers showed incredible courage and unity from day one. Even with delays and challenges, they never lost sight of what they deserved, a real voice, stability, and respect on the job. I’m proud to have helped them join the IAM family, and this victory belongs entirely to their determination.”
District 142 General Chair Boris Kochanoff is now working with District 142 Communications Team on a comprehensive survey covering workplace issues and contract proposals so new members can set priorities ahead of upcoming contract negotiations.
