The Pennsylvania State Council of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) recently held its 2025 conference, where union leaders and delegates discussed key issues affecting workers in the state.
President Rich Howell provided a report summarizing updates from the event. IAM Chief of Staff Vinny Addeo addressed attendees on the political situation in Washington, D.C., focusing on how it impacts union members. He emphasized the importance of advocating for union rights and resisting efforts to suppress their voices. Richie Johnsen, General Vice President for IAM Air Transport Territory, announced that mechanics at American Airlines are now earning more than $70 per hour, marking a new high for compensation in that sector.
David Sullivan, General Vice President for IAM Eastern Territory, spoke about the organization’s commitment to defending its members against legislative threats to worker rights coming from Washington, D.C.
Delegates at the conference expressed strong support for Janelle Stelson, a pro-labor candidate running for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 10th district. The event also included presentations on topics such as union litigation, OSHA safety standards, strategies used in anti-union campaigns, and community involvement projects.
The report concluded by highlighting the need to mobilize union members to participate in upcoming elections by supporting pro-labor candidates and Supreme Court judges in Pennsylvania.
