The International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) has recognized the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) for excellence in labor communications at the 2025 Labor Media Contest. The contest is considered one of the most significant competitions for labor communication professionals.
Brian Bryant, IAM International President, commented on the achievement: “The IAM Union Communications Department continues to lead the way. 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 highlights top work in labor journalism each year. In this cycle, IAM representatives earned several distinctions:
– Third Place, Writing: Best Feature Story Of An Issue for “Our Future, Our Fight: Seizing Momentum for IAM/Boeing Contract Negotiations” by Elias Flamenco Rivera.
– Third Place, Social Media: Best Organic/Owned Social Media Live Event Coverage – Nevada Get Out The Vote, 2024 by Bill Harkum.
– First Place, Political Action/Social Justice/Campaign: Union Swag, Union Drip design for the “Our Future, Our Fight” graphics package by Deirdre Kaniewski.
Jonathan Battaglia, IAM Communications Director, said: “We’re not just telling stories, we are amplifying the voices of our members and fighting for the issues that affect their lives. 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, IAM Union Assistant Communications Director and outgoing ILCA Secretary-Treasurer, reflected on his tenure with ILCA: “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 ceremony also honored Lisa Martin, former ILCA President Emeritus and Strategic Communications Director at LIUNA (Laborers’ International Union of North America), who passed away recently. Martin was recognized for her leadership since 2018 and her role in strengthening ILCA’s mission.
