Katrina Coleman, National Vice President of the Transportation Communications Union/International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (TCU/IAM), was appointed to the AFL-CIO Executive Council, according to a March 12 announcement.
The appointment places Coleman among the leadership guiding the work of the AFL-CIO, which represents nearly 15 million members. The Executive Council consists of two top officers and 55 vice presidents who are democratically elected and whose responsibilities are outlined in the federation’s constitution.
Coleman brings almost four decades of experience in labor advocacy and organizing. She was elected National Vice President by the TCU/IAM Executive Council, effective March 1, 2026. Her career began in 1986 as a clerk for Amtrak in Philadelphia, where she became involved in union activism that led to various leadership roles at local, regional, and national levels.
“Congratulations to Sister Coleman on this well-deserved honor,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Katrina’s election as National Vice President is a testament to the strength she has shown throughout her career. She has been a strong advocate for our members. Her appointment to the AFL-CIO Executive Council is a moment of great pride not just for TCU/IAM, but for the entire labor movement. I am honored to welcome her to the Council. She will bring that same fierce dedication to every room she enters.”
Coleman’s previous positions include Local Chairperson of TCU/IAM Local 1351 from 2014 through 2022 and Assistant National Representative for TCU/IAM Unit 86 beginning in 2016 before being elevated to National Representative. In these roles, she supported Amtrak and SEPTA local lodges and represented members across their systems.
In addition to her leadership roles, Coleman founded FIERCE—the TCU/IAM Women’s Committee—in 2022, establishing a formal structure for addressing issues facing Local Chairwomen and promoting community outreach. She has also served on the TCU/IAM Education Committee, mentoring new leaders within the union.
