Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) who are military veterans recently gathered for a program focused on supporting fellow veterans within their union, workplaces, and communities. The IAM Veterans Committee-Building Class brought together members from various locals across the country to share their experiences, develop advocacy skills, and plan strategies for building veterans committees in their districts.
During the week-long class, participants engaged in classroom sessions, workshops, and group discussions. These activities addressed issues such as navigating Veterans Affairs benefits and claims, accessing support resources, and organizing community service initiatives.
As part of the program, participants volunteered at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. They worked together to tear down and rebuild a safety fence around a pond on the property. This effort was intended to demonstrate the IAM’s commitment to community service.
Rich Evans, IAM Veterans Services Coordinator, commented on the impact of the program: “When veterans unite through the IAM, we create more than committees. We build bridges of support, leadership, and solidarity. This program reminds us that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It continues in our workplaces and communities, where we stand together to care for one another.”
