The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) New Mexico State Council held its recent meeting in Ruidoso, New Mexico, bringing together union members from across the state to focus on organizing, legislative advocacy, and communication. The gathering aimed to strengthen the union’s presence in workplaces and communities and to prepare for upcoming political cycles.
John Dyrcz, President of the IAM New Mexico State Council and member of Local 794, opened the meeting by emphasizing unity and collaboration within the labor movement. “Our state council meeting went great,” said Dyrcz. “Over the past two days, we laid down a strong foundation for the 2026 election cycle and updated our bylaws to make sure we have solid ground for picking labor-friendly candidates and next year’s elections. I want to see continued participation, and I hope some new individuals will volunteer to give their time and talents to state council leadership. My message for our delegates is to stay engaged, activate, agitate, and organize.”
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes provided an update on the state of the union, discussing growth, recent contract achievements, and national campaigns focused on workers’ rights. Cervantes encouraged delegates to build on IAM’s history of advocacy.
Robert “Bobby” Martinez, Western Territory General Vice President, addressed the delegates about the challenges facing federal employees and federal contract workers. He highlighted IAM’s role in protecting fair pay and workplace benefits.
The event also included an update from Richie Johnsen, Air Transport Territory General Vice President, who discussed ongoing negotiations with airline carriers and emphasized that successes in one area benefit the entire organization.
Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to the IAM International President for the Rail Division, marked Local 331’s first participation in the council meeting and gave an overview of issues in the rail industry. Other speakers included Loren Almeroth, Assistant Legislative and Political Director, and DeLane Adams, Assistant Communications Director.
Delegates discussed strategies for organizing and building alliances with labor-friendly elected officials in New Mexico. The council also revised its bylaws in preparation for the 2026 election cycle.
The officers of the New Mexico State Council include President John Dyrcz (Local 794), First Vice President Art Pardo (Local 2515), Second Vice President Virgil Thompson (Local 794), Secretary Treasurer Tina Davis (Local 794), and Trustees Lynnelle Jimenez (Local 1635), Bud Duryea (Local 2515), and Ron More (Local 2515).
Delegates left the meeting with a commitment to continue building union strength through solidarity and action.
