IAM International President Brian Bryant announced on Mar. 12 the appointment of Teressa Peart as a Special Representative in the IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Department, effective April 1. Peart, a longtime union leader and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, will focus on veterans’ claims and disaster relief efforts for IAM members and their families.
The appointment highlights the union’s ongoing commitment to supporting its members, particularly veterans and those affected by disasters. The role is seen as important for helping IAM veterans navigate complex processes related to benefits and providing timely assistance during emergencies.
“We’re proud to add Teressa to our Retirees and Membership Assistance team,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Teressa has proven herself to be a fierce advocate for IAM members and veterans, and our union is fortunate to bring her on in this official capacity. Her skillset and story are both unique and unmatched. We are excited to grow our Veterans Services initiatives with the addition of her knowledge and expertise.”
James Little, Director of the department, said: “Teressa has played a critical role in advancing our IAM veterans support initiatives across the union. In her new position, Teressa will help IAM veterans navigate the complex VA claims process that she is an expert in, develop strategies to grow the program, and coordinate support when natural disasters impact IAM communities.“
Peart began her career with IAM Local 733 (now Local 774) at Beech Aircraft in 1998 as a radio and electrical engineer. She follows a family tradition of union service—her mother, grandfather, and grandmother were all active members within District 70. Over time, she served as shop steward, trustee, secretary-treasurer, gaining experience in leadership roles including Secretary-Treasurer of District 70 for six years.
In addition to her work with veterans through chairing the Veterans Services Steering Committee (VSSC), Peart co-hosts an annual Flags of Freedom event honoring military service alongside United Way of the Plains. She also mentors women leaders through the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) program.
Peart’s appointment reflects an ongoing effort by the union to ensure that members receive needed support while fostering leadership development among future generations.
