Richard Suarez has been named as the new Western Territory Coordinator for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), effective September 1, 2025. The appointment was made by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Suarez brings decades of experience in union activities, including collective bargaining and organizing in both private and public sectors. He is bilingual in Spanish and English, which has allowed him to play significant roles in various organizing campaigns and political rallies. He has also participated as a lecturer at IAM Human Rights Conferences.
“A lifetime of service and leadership has prepared Richard for this important role,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “His experience, education, and compassion for working people will help strengthen our union and grow the IAM Western Territory.”
Suarez started his career with the IAM in 1987 as a Reservation Agent for Northwest Airlines and became a member of Local 1932 in Los Angeles. He later moved to Los Angeles International Airport where he was elected Grievance Committee Chairman. His work advocating for airline workers led to further responsibilities within the union.
He was later elected Air Transport District 143 General Chairman before being appointed an Educational Representative at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in 2011, where he trained members from across North America. In 2013, Suarez joined the IAM Western Territory Staff as a Special Representative and was promoted two years later to International Representative for the region.
