Members of IAM Union Local S6 at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works (BIW) in Bath, Maine, recently gathered to honor Amber Czech, a 20-year-old welder and educator who was killed by a coworker on November 11, 2025, in Cokato, Minnesota. The event highlighted concerns about workplace violence and emphasized the need for increased protection for women working in skilled trades.
Amber Czech was recognized for her expertise as a welder and her commitment to teaching welding at her former high school during her days off. The tribute organized by Local S6 called attention to the risks faced by women in such professions.
Megan McCandless, a BIW welder and member of IAM Union Local S6, led the event. She said, “I thought we had a responsibility through the company and the Union to shed light and recognize what happened in honor of Amber. We had women from the company and the Union coming together in honor of Amber Czech. It is a woman’s issue, and it is so important to have each other’s back in the workplace.”
General Dynamics Bath Iron Works produced a video documenting the tribute with remarks from McCandless.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant stated, “Amber was one of us, a young, talented welder who loved her craft and her community. Her life was brutally stolen. This kind of workplace violence is a horror no family or coworker should ever have to endure. The IAM and Local S6 stand united in saying it will never be tolerated. We owe it to Amber, and to every worker, to fight for dignity, safety, and respect on the job.”
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President and Local S6 member, noted that only six percent of welders in U.S. trades are women. He said this leaves many feeling isolated or vulnerable: “Amber should have had a long, successful career. The Eastern Territory is committed to ensuring that no worker ever feels isolated, threatened, or unsafe. Solidarity means stepping up for one another, and we will not fail.”
Chris Williams, president of IAM Union Local S6 added: “No one should ever come to work fearing violence or harassment. Our union is a family that shows up for each other. This powerful tribute reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting everyone on the shop floor.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents around 600,000 active and retired members across North America in industries including aerospace, defense, shipbuilding, healthcare, automotive sectors as well as others.
