The Pennsylvania State Council of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) recently held its 2025 conference, where union leaders and members gathered to discuss current issues facing labor unions in the state and across the country.
President Rich Howell provided a detailed report from the event. Key speakers included IAM Chief of Staff Vinny Addeo, who addressed how developments in Washington, D.C., are affecting union members. Addeo stressed the importance of continuing to advocate for union rights. “We must fight for our union rights and refuse to be silenced,” he told attendees.
Richie Johnsen, General Vice President for IAM Air Transport Territory, shared updates on wage gains within the sector. He noted that mechanics at American Airlines have reached compensation levels exceeding $70 per hour.
David Sullivan, General Vice President for IAM Eastern Territory, spoke about the organization’s efforts to protect worker rights amid challenges from policymakers in Washington. “The IAM is standing strong for our membership against forces in Washington DC who seek to destroy worker rights,” Sullivan said.
Delegates at the conference endorsed Janelle Stelson as a pro-labor candidate running for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 10th district. The event also featured presentations on topics such as union-related legal matters, workplace safety under OSHA regulations, strategies used in anti-union campaigns, and ongoing community initiatives.
The meeting concluded with a call to action encouraging union members to participate actively in upcoming elections by supporting candidates and judges who favor labor interests.
