Howard “Howie” Huestis, president of IAM Local 1746, has been recognized for his ongoing efforts to support the East Hartford community. Huestis, who grew up in East Hartford, is known for his dedication both to union members at Pratt and Whitney and to local residents.
“I grew up in this town. I am dedicated to this town,” said Huestis. “I know what it’s like to be on the receiving end of needing donations.”
Under Huestis’s leadership, Therese Hervieux and Taylor Salmon from the IAM Local 1746 Women’s Committee have continued an annual partnership with East Hartford Public Schools. The initiative provides thousands of school supplies each year to children from families with limited resources. The event is anticipated by many students and their families.
The most recent distribution took place at East Hartford Green Park, where volunteers set up booths and tables offering backpacks, notebooks, rulers, pencils, and other essential materials. Additional supplies were contributed by the IAM Eastern Territory.
At a recent Connecticut State Council meeting, Huestis received the IAM Human Rights Award from IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan and Chief of Staff Lorie Wilson. The award acknowledges his work organizing and sustaining the backpack rally event for local students.
The event has grown over time to include participation from other community organizations and sometimes offers health services alongside school supplies as part of broader efforts to help families prepare for the new academic year.
