The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers’ (IAM) New Jersey State Council (NJSC) convened its annual meeting, drawing more than 100 union leaders, political advocates, and members from across the state. The gathering focused on advancing pro-worker legislation and preparing for the 2025 gubernatorial election.
Representing over 20,000 workers in New Jersey, the NJSC meeting was led by President Cristino Vilorio, who also serves as IAM District 15 Area Director. Attendees heard from several key figures within the IAM leadership, 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 addressed delegates with updates about contracts that set industry standards in the airline sector. Jody Bennett stressed the importance of supporting the union’s Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) PAC to continue legislative advocacy nationwide.
David Sullivan opened the second day of meetings by urging unity among members. Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff, spoke about the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS), highlighting its role in strengthening union leadership.
“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, reminded delegates about the significance of political engagement: “In 2025, your voice can be heard LOUD and CLEAR by getting out the vote for IAM endorsed candidates.”
A highlight of the event was awarding retired TCU/IAM National Vice President Billy DeCarlo with the Frank Darcy Award for Leadership. This annual honor recognizes outstanding service furthering both union goals and broader worker advocacy.
Elected officials addressing attendees included Rep. Bonnie Coleman (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., and congressional candidate Katie Brennan.
Delegates celebrated passage of New Jersey’s Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act (A4380/S3309). The law ensures fair wages for automotive dealership mechanics statewide—a measure passed unanimously by both chambers following significant lobbying efforts from NJSCM members. The IAM represents hundreds of skilled automotive technicians throughout New Jersey as part of ongoing efforts to improve conditions for working families.
“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 on COPE committee roles; Craig Livingston serves as council attorney.
