Approximately 80 workers from UNIFI at Fresno Yosemite International Airport have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Air Transport Territory. The vote, held on December 3, follows a campaign in which employees highlighted concerns over stagnant wages, lack of an established pay scale, and absence of work rules or benefits.
Prior to organizing efforts, UNIFI employees were earning $16.50 per hour, matching California’s minimum wage. Workers stated that any pay increases they received were only due to state-mandated hikes. After learning about the union drive, management announced a wage increase to $18 per hour effective September 1, but this did not prevent the unionization effort from moving forward.
Employees also expressed frustration with management’s practice of setting work rules without consistency or clear expectations. This lack of structured policies contributed to their desire for union representation.
“Congratulations to District 142, Local 1782 and especially our new members at UNIFI Fresno,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Bringing UNIFI Fresno into our union is another powerful step in strengthening worker power across the industry. We’re proud to welcome them into the IAM family.”
IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. added: “The vote in Fresno sends a clear message, Air Transport workers want the power and protection that only the IAM can deliver. We’re honored to represent these new members and are ready to get to work on their first contract.”
The process faced challenges including a federal government shutdown that delayed the election from its original October date until December. High turnover among vendor company staff also made organizing more difficult, but workers remained committed throughout.
Local 1782 President Frances Finau helped connect organizers with Aakash Narayan, a Southwest Airlines Steward and Local 1782 member in Fresno who led efforts on-site during the campaign.
“Being part of this campaign and standing alongside the UNIFI Fresno team has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” said Narayan. “These workers showed incredible courage and unity from day one. Even with delays and challenges, they never lost sight of what they deserved, a real voice, stability, and respect on the job. I’m proud to have helped them join the IAM family, and this victory belongs entirely to their determination.”
District 142 General Chair Boris Kochanoff is working with the communications team to launch a survey about workplace issues and contract proposals as preparations begin for collective bargaining.
