The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) New Jersey State Council (NJSC) convened its annual meeting, gathering more than 100 union leaders, political advocates, and members from across New Jersey. The event focused on advancing pro-worker legislation and preparing for the upcoming 2025 gubernatorial election.
The NJSC represents over 20,000 workers in the state. The meeting was led by Cristino Vilorio, President of the NJSC and IAM District 15 Area Director. Delegates heard from several IAM Executive Council members, including International President Brian Bryant, Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett.
“Our union’s strength lies in our ability to organize, mobilize, and legislate,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The work being done here in New Jersey is a model for building power at the state level and fighting for legislation like fair wages for IAM auto technicians.”
Richie Johnsen updated delegates on recent contracts achieved in the airline industry. Jody Bennett highlighted the importance of supporting the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) PAC to maintain legislative advocacy efforts nationwide.
David Sullivan opened the second day of the meeting with a message about unity within the labor movement. Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff, spoke about how initiatives like Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS) help strengthen the union.
“We can’t let hate in politics divide our nation,” said Sullivan. “We must stay focused on fighting for a stronger labor movement, and that fight starts here in New Jersey.”
Hasan Solomon, IAM National Legislative and Political Director, stressed to delegates that active political engagement is crucial: “In 2025, your voice can be heard LOUD and CLEAR by getting out the vote for IAM endorsed candidates.”
The council also presented its annual Frank Darcy Award for Leadership to retired TCU/IAM National Vice President and Legislative Director Billy DeCarlo. The award honors outstanding leadership among IAM members in furthering union goals.
Several elected officials addressed attendees during the event, including Rep. Bonnie Coleman (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., and Katie Brennan, candidate for New Jersey Congressional District 32.
A major legislative accomplishment was celebrated: passage of the Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act (A4380/S3309). This law ensures fair wages for automotive dealership mechanics throughout New Jersey after passing both chambers with bipartisan support—an outcome attributed to lobbying by NJSCM members.
The IAM continues to represent hundreds of skilled automotive technicians statewide while advocating policies aimed at improving conditions for working families.
“With a critical election season ahead, the IAM New Jersey State Council is laser-focused on supporting candidates who fight for working families,” said Vilorio. “We are ready to work to make Mikie Sherrill our next governor and elect pro-labor candidates across the state. I want to thank everyone for helping make this year’s state council meeting a success and it was exciting to celebrate the passage of legislation for our members working at automobile dealerships across New Jersey.”
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