Workers at V2X Vertex Aerospace in Fort Worth, Texas, who provide maintenance services for military aircraft at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The decision came after a mail-in ballot election that concluded on December 30. The employees will now be represented by IAM District 776.
The organizing campaign began gaining momentum in June 2025 when workers contacted the IAM for assistance. Keith “Chub” McCrory, an associate organizer with the IAM, noted the persistence of the workers throughout the process. “This campaign really belongs to the workers,” said McCrory. “They stuck together through delays, through uncertainty, and they never lost sight of why they wanted a union.”
McCrory explained that although discussions about unionizing had occurred over several years, action accelerated after direct outreach from an employee. “We met with a handful of them, dropped cards right away, and let them take ownership of the campaign,” he said. “It’s their contract. It’s their future.”
The campaign encountered challenges due to a federal government shutdown in 2025 that delayed the election process. Despite this setback, support among workers remained strong. “I honestly thought the shutdown might cool things off,” McCrory stated. “But they hung in there. That’s what made this win so meaningful.”
Some employees who had previously been under IAM representation played a role in building confidence and countering anti-union messages among their colleagues. According to McCrory, while there was some internal opposition within V2X Vertex Aerospace, management did not launch a major anti-union effort.
“In the end, people will see what a contract can do for them,” said McCrory.
This development is considered significant for IAM’s growth strategy in North Texas—a region with extensive aerospace and defense service contract work. The IAM already represents V2X employees elsewhere and remains one of the largest unions representing aerospace and defense workers nationwide.
“Planting the flag out there was the goal,” McCrory said. “This is just the beginning, a new beginning in that area.”
McCrory led this effort alongside fellow organizer Joey Barnes and received support from leadership at IAM District 776 as well as its members over several years.
“We wouldn’t be here without District 776’s help,” McCrory added, acknowledging President and Directing Business Representative Doyle Huddleston for his significant support.
