IAM members from various regions and industries attended the IAM Young Workers Program at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center. The program, organized by Dee Colbert, Director of IAM Women’s and Young Workers, focused on developing local Young Worker Committees within the union.
“This initiative is designed to engage and empower the next generation of union members by providing them with exposure to a wide range of departments, leaders, and opportunities within our movement,” said Colbert. “It is imperative that we give young workers meaningful experiences that deepen their understanding of union values and help shape their leadership mindset as they prepare for long, successful careers in the labor movement.”
During the weeklong event, participants engaged in training covering topics such as IAM history, strategic planning, parliamentary procedure, generational diversity, public speaking, organizing around key issues, basic economics related to unions, human rights advocacy, and how to form effective committees. Sessions were led by experienced educators from IAM.
Participants worked in groups to create strategic plans for establishing Young Worker Committees at their home locals. One group presented its plan through a podcast format to demonstrate new ways young members can use digital media for outreach.
The IAM Communications Department provided training on communication strategies so participants could better connect with fellow members and promote committee-building efforts after returning home.
Senior leaders including General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, Special Assistant Bryan Pinette, and Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen spoke to attendees about their own experiences in the union. They encouraged young members to remain active in shaping the future of labor representation.
