Tom O’Heron, a retired Collective Bargaining Director for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has died at the age of 69. O’Heron began his career in 1978 when he joined IAM Local 21 as a machinist at the Trane Company in Wisconsin. Over more than four decades, he advanced through various leadership roles within the union.
O’Heron’s commitment to workplace fairness led him to represent his colleagues as Directing Business Representative for District 66 before moving on to positions with the IAM International. He served as Collective Bargaining Coordinator and later as Collective Bargaining Director until his retirement in 2016.
As director, O’Heron was instrumental in negotiating contracts that provided fair wages, benefits, and protections for IAM members. His work contributed significantly to strengthening the union over several decades.
“Tom O’Heron was a true trade unionist whose work shaped our union and improved the lives of countless working families,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He will be remembered for his steady leadership at the bargaining table, his lifelong dedication to fairness, and his unwavering commitment to solidarity.”
Outside of his professional life, O’Heron was active in sports and community activities. He coached baseball and basketball teams involving both his sons and local high school students. He also participated in golf and supported his granddaughters’ pursuits. Known for being approachable and having a strong Catholic faith, he served as Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus.
The IAM expressed condolences to O’Heron’s family, friends, and others who knew him, acknowledging that his leadership and generosity would be missed.
