IAM members from various regions and industries gathered at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center to participate in the IAM Young Workers Program. The event was organized by Dee Colbert, Director of IAM Women’s and Young Workers.
The program lasted a week and aimed to prepare young union members for leadership roles within their local unions. Participants engaged in practical training sessions that covered topics such as union history, strategic planning, parliamentary procedure, generational diversity, public speaking, organizing strategies, economics relevant to workers, human rights, and committee development. Sessions were conducted by experienced educators from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).
“This initiative is designed to engage and empower the next generation of union members by providing them with exposure to a wide range of departments, leaders, and opportunities within our movement,” said Colbert. “It is imperative that we give young workers meaningful experiences that deepen their understanding of union values and help shape their leadership mindset as they prepare for long, successful careers in the labor movement.”
As part of the program, participants worked in groups to create strategic plans for forming Young Worker Committees in their home unions. These projects incorporated skills learned during the week. One group used a podcast format for their presentation to demonstrate new approaches for reaching younger audiences.
The IAM Communications Department provided training on effective messaging techniques so that participants could better engage with other union members and promote committee-building efforts upon returning home.
Senior IAM officials also attended the event to offer support and share personal experiences. General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, Special Assistant Bryan Pinette, and Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen spoke with attendees about the significance of young member involvement in union activities.
