The International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) has recognized the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) in its 2025 Labor Media Contest, honoring the IAM Communications Department with several awards.
“The IAM Union Communications Department continues to lead the way,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Their dedication and commitment to sharing the stories of our members shines through in every piece they produce. This well-deserved recognition from ILCA solidifies their place as a leading voice in the labor movement.”
The ILCA Labor Media Awards Contest is regarded as one of the most significant competitions for labor communication professionals, highlighting high standards in journalism within the field.
Among this year’s awards, Elias Flamenco Rivera received third place for Best Feature Story Of An Issue for his work on “Our Future, Our Fight: Seizing Momentum for IAM/Boeing Contract Negotiations” published in the Summer 2024 edition of IAM Journal. Bill Harkum was awarded third place for Best Organic/Owned Social Media Live Event Coverage with his coverage of Nevada Get Out The Vote 2024. Deirdre Kaniewski, IAM Union District 751 Communications Director, won first place in Political Action/Social Justice/Campaign category for her design work on the “Our Future, Our Fight” graphics package.
“We’re not just telling stories, we are amplifying the voices of our members and fighting for the issues that affect their lives,” said IAM Communications Director Jonathan Battaglia. “I am extremely proud of our entire department. The communications paradigm is shifting quickly in the labor movement and our team continues to adapt to the challenges and generate award-winning content year after year.”
DeLane Adams, outgoing ILCA Secretary-Treasurer and Assistant Communications Director at IAM Union, reflected on efforts to improve ILCA’s financial health: “When I first took on the role of Secretary-Treasurer, the ILCA was in a financially challenging position. It wasn’t easy, but we made some difficult decisions about our team and really tried to think creatively to get us back on track. We worked hard to demonstrate the real value of the ILCA, especially with our biennial convention. I am confident that the ILCA will continue to thrive and inspire the next generation of labor communicators.”
This year’s contest also included a tribute by ILCA honoring Lisa Martin—ILCA President Emeritus and LIUNA Strategic Communications Director—who passed away recently. Her leadership since becoming president in 2018 brought renewed energy to ILCA by fostering diversity among communicators and guiding organizational growth.
