Retired International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) International President Robert Martinez Jr. will be inducted into the Texas Labor Hall of Fame, recognizing his career in service to workers in Texas and nationwide.
Martinez began his involvement with IAM in 1980 as an aircraft assembler at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Fort Worth, Texas, joining IAM Local 776A. Over the years, he held several roles within the union, including educator and safety advocate, before moving into leadership positions at local, district, and international levels.
In 2003, Martinez was elected Southern Territory General Vice President on the IAM Executive Council. He later served as Resident General Vice President from 2013, overseeing key departments at IAM Headquarters and the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center. In January 2016, Martinez became the IAM’s 14th International President.
During his tenure as president, Martinez was notable for being both the first person of color to lead the IAM and the first Latino president of a major U.S. labor union. His leadership focused on education initiatives, workplace safety, organizing efforts, collective bargaining, and political advocacy for working families.
“Bob represents the very best of our union,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He is a leader who came from the shop floor and dedicated his life to lifting up working people. He broke barriers, strengthened the IAM, and inspired countless members and leaders across our movement. This recognition is well deserved, and we thank him for his lasting impact on the IAM family and working people everywhere.”
The induction ceremony will take place during a dinner event in Georgetown, Texas on January 24 honoring Martinez along with other figures from Texas labor history.