Howard “Howie” Huestis, president of IAM Local 1746, has been recognized for his ongoing commitment to the East Hartford community. Huestis, who grew up in East Hartford, is known for his work supporting both union members at Pratt and Whitney and local residents.
“I grew up in this town. I am dedicated to this town,” said Huestis. “I know what it’s like to be on the receiving end of needing donations.”
Under Huestis’s leadership, IAM Local 1746 Women’s Committee members Therese Hervieux and Taylor Salmon have maintained a partnership with East Hartford Public Schools. Each year, they organize an event that provides thousands of school supplies to children from families with limited resources. The event has become an annual tradition for students and the wider community.
The most recent distribution took place at East Hartford Green Park, where volunteers handed out backpacks, notebooks, rulers, pencils, and other school materials. The IAM Eastern Territory also contributed supplies for the occasion.
At a recent Connecticut State Council meeting, Howie Huestis received an IAM Human Rights Award in recognition of his service. The award was presented by IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan and Chief of Staff Lorie Wilson. They cited Huestis’s role in establishing and sustaining the backpack rally as a key reason for the honor.
Over time, the event has grown to include additional community partner booths and sometimes health services. These efforts aim to help families prepare their children for a successful start to the school year.
