Tom O’Heron, a retired director of collective bargaining for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has died at the age of 69. O’Heron began his involvement with IAM in 1978 when he joined Local 21, starting a career that spanned more than four decades.
O’Heron was trained as a machinist and started working at the Trane Company in Wisconsin. His commitment to workplace fairness led him into union leadership roles, including serving as Directing Business Representative for District 66. He later worked for the IAM International, first as Collective Bargaining Coordinator and then as Collective Bargaining Director before retiring in 2016.
As director, O’Heron helped negotiate contracts aimed at securing fair wages, benefits, and protections for union members. According to the IAM, his work contributed significantly to strengthening the organization over several generations.
“Tom O’Heron was a true trade unionist whose work shaped our union and improved the lives of countless working families,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He will be remembered for his steady leadership at the bargaining table, his lifelong dedication to fairness, and his unwavering commitment to solidarity.”
Outside of his professional life, O’Heron was active in community activities. He coached youth baseball and girls’ high school basketball and participated in other sports such as golf. He also supported his granddaughters’ activities and was known for his approachable manner and strong Catholic faith. O’Heron served as Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus.
The IAM extended condolences to O’Heron’s family, friends, and others who knew him.
