IAM International President Brian Bryant, who began his career as a pipefitter at Bath Iron Works (BIW) and is a member of Local S6, led a delegation from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) on a tour of the shipyard. The visit highlighted the work of more than 4,000 IAM-represented members of Local S6 involved in constructing advanced battleships for the U.S. Navy.
Bryant was accompanied by Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, also a former BIW shipbuilder and Local S6 member, along with other General Vice Presidents, Chiefs of Staff from various IAM territories, and staff from IAM Headquarters. The group toured major buildings at the shipyard, visited production areas, and boarded a U.S. Navy destroyer that is over 75% complete.
The delegation also visited BIW’s training facility. This center recruits and trains individuals from local communities—many without previous mechanical experience—to become union shipbuilders.
“This facility is more than a training center – it’s a gateway for working people in Maine to enter a proud trade and build a better life,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “It strengthens the shipyard, our union, and the communities we call home. That’s what the IAM is all about.”
During their visit, IAM leadership spoke with Local S6 members while they worked and observed their skills firsthand.
“There’s a deep sense of pride and unity here that you can feel the moment you walk through the gates. Local S6 members are carrying forward a tradition of excellence,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, “Now they’re bringing in new talent to strengthen that foundation.”
