The Pennsylvania State Council of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) recently held its 2025 conference, where union leaders and delegates discussed key issues affecting their members.
President Rich Howell provided a detailed report on the conference, which included updates from several notable speakers. IAM Chief of Staff Vinny Addeo addressed the political environment in Washington, D.C., emphasizing how it affects union members. He also stressed the importance of defending union rights. “We must continue to fight for our rights as union members and not allow ourselves to be silenced,” Addeo said.
Richie Johnsen, General Vice President for IAM Air Transport Territory, shared that mechanics in his sector are now earning more than $70 an hour at American Airlines, marking a record high for compensation in that field. David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President, spoke about the organization’s efforts to protect worker rights against challenges from Washington, D.C. “The IAM stands strong for our membership against those who seek to destroy worker rights,” Sullivan told delegates.
Delegates at the conference also voted overwhelmingly to endorse Janelle Stelson, a pro-labor candidate running for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 10th district. The event featured additional speakers who covered topics such as union litigation, OSHA safety standards, anti-union campaign tactics, and community involvement projects.
The conference concluded with a call to action for members to mobilize and support pro-labor candidates and Supreme Court judges in Pennsylvania’s upcoming election.
