More than 120 helicopter mechanics and supply technicians employed by Amentum at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). This marks the first time IAM will represent workers at this naval installation.
The mail-in ballot election, held on December 30, resulted in a two-to-one margin in favor of IAM representation. The new union members are responsible for providing maintenance and supply support for military helicopter operations at the base.
“This was a campaign that required patience, education, and a strong core group of workers,” said IAM Assistant Organizing Coordinator Joe Solis. “The employees stayed engaged and committed, even when delays tested everyone’s resolve.”
The organizing campaign began with outreach through established networks and continued with direct conversations and meetings to inform workers about union benefits. After the petition for representation was filed, the 2025 federal government shutdown caused a delay in holding the election.
“That delay made things more challenging,” said Solis. “But the workers stayed united and were excited just to finally see the process move forward.”
During the campaign period, Amentum hired about 30 additional employees. Despite this increase in staff and the government shutdown postponing the vote, organizers maintained confidence in their efforts.
This development establishes an IAM presence at Naval Station Mayport for the first time.
“When you’re the first union on a military installation, it’s harder,” Solis explained. “You have to build trust from the ground up and spend a lot of time educating workers about what the union does and how it benefits them.”
Organizers highlighted IAM’s experience representing Service Contract Act (SCA) workers nationwide, especially within defense, aerospace, and aviation sectors.
“We explained that IAM Union are the experts in the service contract industry,” said Solis. “We’ve delivered strong contracts for thousands of workers doing this kind of work across the country.”
Preparations are underway to begin negotiations for an initial contract between IAM-represented employees at Amentum and management. Talks are expected to start soon.
“This win shows what’s possible when workers stay engaged and the Organizing Department works closely with the territories and districts,” said Solis. “That partnership is critical, especially during challenges like a government shutdown.”
