The International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) has recognized the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Communications Department in its 2025 Labor Media Contest. The annual contest highlights excellence in labor communications, with the IAM team earning awards for their work.
“The IAM Union Communications Department continues to lead the way,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Their dedication and commitment to sharing the stories of our members shines through in every piece they produce. This well-deserved recognition from ILCA solidifies their place as a leading voice in the labor movement.”
Among this year’s honors, Elias Flamenco Rivera received third place for Best Feature Story in the Summer 2024 issue of IAM Journal, focusing on contract negotiations with Boeing. Bill Harkum was awarded third place for social media coverage of Nevada’s Get Out The Vote event in 2024. Deirdre Kaniewski, Communications Director for IAM District 751, earned first place for her design work on the “Our Future, Our Fight” graphics package.
“We’re not just telling stories, we are amplifying the voices of our members and fighting for the issues that affect their lives,” said IAM Communications Director Jonathan Battaglia. “I am extremely proud of our entire department. The communications paradigm is shifting quickly in the labor movement and our team continues to adapt to the challenges and generate award-winning content year after year.”
The department’s approach centers on highlighting both challenges faced by workers and their achievements.
Reflecting on changes within ILCA, DeLane Adams, outgoing Secretary-Treasurer and Assistant Communications Director at IAM Union, said: “When I first took on the role of Secretary-Treasurer, the ILCA was in a financially challenging position. It wasn’t easy, but we made some difficult decisions about our team and really tried to think creatively to get us back on track. We worked hard to demonstrate the real value of the ILCA, especially with our biennial convention. I am confident that the ILCA will continue to thrive and inspire the next generation of labor communicators.”
This year’s ceremony also included a tribute to Lisa Martin, former ILCA President Emeritus and Strategic Communications Director at LIUNA, who passed away recently. According to those who worked with her, Martin brought renewed energy to ILCA since becoming president in 2018 by supporting its mission and helping expand its community.
