The Pennsylvania State Council of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) recently held its 2025 conference, where several updates relevant to union members were discussed.
President Rich Howell provided a detailed report on the proceedings. IAM Chief of Staff Vinny Addeo addressed the political environment in Washington, D.C., highlighting its effects on union members and emphasizing the ongoing need to defend union rights. According to Addeo, “We must fight for our rights as union members and refuse to be silenced.”
Richie Johnsen, General Vice President of IAM Air Transport Territory, informed attendees that mechanics at American Airlines are now earning more than $70 an hour, which marks a new record for compensation within the sector. David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President, spoke about how “the IAM stands strong for our membership against those in Washington DC who want to destroy worker rights.”
Delegates at the conference expressed strong support for Janelle Stelson’s congressional campaign in Pennsylvania’s 10th district by endorsing her as a pro-labor candidate. Other speakers covered topics such as union litigation, OSHA safety standards, strategies countering anti-union campaigns, and involvement in community projects.
The report concluded with a call for mobilization among members to support pro-labor candidates and Supreme Court judges in Pennsylvania’s upcoming election.
