Ryan Haehnlein, currently the Assistant Directing Business Representative of IAM Local 701, has been appointed as a Special Representative for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Midwest Territory. The appointment, made by IAM International President Brian Bryant, will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Haehnlein has been with IAM Local 701 since 2011 and began his career in the heavy-duty trucking industry at M&K Truck Centers. As a Shop Steward, he achieved several grievance victories and helped resolve labor disputes for his colleagues. In early 2021, he became an Organizer and was promoted to Business Representative later that year. He was named Assistant Directing Business Representative in June 2022.
“IAM members across the Midwest will benefit from Ryan’s deep experience, steady leadership, and unwavering dedication to working families,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Ryan has proven time and again that he is a fighter for our members—at the bargaining table, on the shop floor, and in every role he has taken on. We are proud to welcome him to the Midwest Territory staff.”
In his current role, Haehnlein serves members in freight, heavy-duty industries, automotive dealerships, machine shops, equipment sectors, manufacturing, and independent sectors. He also leads communication efforts as editor of the Local 701 newsletter and supports digital outreach through work on the local’s website and mobile app.
Beyond his duties within Local 701, Haehnlein holds broader leadership positions such as delegate and COPE representative to the Chicago Federation of Labor and Secretary-Treasurer of the IAM Illinois State Council. In January 2024, he was appointed by International President Bryant to serve on the IAM Law Committee.
Haehnlein’s trustee responsibilities include serving on the Local 701 Training Fund board as well as participating in management of retirement plans like the 401(k) Defined Contribution Plan. He is also a Trustee-in-Training for health, welfare, and pension funds associated with Local 701.
