The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers’ (IAM) New Jersey State Council (NJSC) convened its annual meeting, bringing together more than 100 union leaders, political advocates, and members from across the state. The gathering focused on advancing pro-worker legislation and preparing for the upcoming 2025 gubernatorial election.
The NJSC represents over 20,000 IAM members in New Jersey. Cristino Vilorio, President of the NJSC and IAM District 15 Area Director, led the meeting. Attendees included several key figures from the IAM Executive Council: International President Brian Bryant, Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett.
“Our union’s strength lies in our ability to organize, mobilize, and legislate,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The work being done here in New Jersey is a model for building power at the state level and fighting for legislation like fair wages for IAM auto technicians.”
Richie Johnsen updated delegates on recent developments regarding airline industry contracts. Jody Bennett spoke about supporting legislative efforts through contributions to the union’s Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) PAC.
David Sullivan opened the second day of the meeting by calling for unity among members. Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff, discussed how programs such as Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS) contribute to strengthening the union.
“We can’t let hate in politics divide our nation,” said Sullivan. “We must stay focused on fighting for a stronger labor movement, and that fight starts here in New Jersey.”
IAM National Legislative and Political Director Hasan Solomon stressed that political participation is vital for union advocacy. “In 2025, your voice can be heard LOUD and CLEAR by getting out the vote for IAM endorsed candidates.”
Each year during this event, NJSC presents the Frank Darcy Award to recognize exceptional leadership within its ranks. This year’s award was given to retired TCU/IAM National Vice President and Legislative Director Billy DeCarlo by TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea.
A number of elected officials addressed delegates at this year’s meeting: Rep. Bonnie Coleman (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., and Katie Brennan—candidate for Congressional District 32—were among those who participated.
Delegates celebrated passage of the Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act (A4380/S3309), which mandates fair compensation for automotive dealership mechanics statewide. The bill received unanimous bipartisan support in both chambers after significant lobbying by NJSCM delegates.
https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2022/A4380
IAM continues representing hundreds of skilled automotive technicians throughout New Jersey while pushing policies intended to benefit working families.
“With a critical election season ahead, the IAM New Jersey State Council is laser-focused on supporting candidates who fight for working families,” said Vilorio. “We are ready to work to make Mikie Sherrill our next governor and elect pro-labor candidates across the state. I want to thank everyone for helping make this year’s state council meeting a success and it was exciting to celebrate the passage of legislation for our members working at automobile dealerships across New Jersey.”
