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 years of service to workers in Texas and across the United States.
Martinez, who began his career as an aircraft assembler at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Fort Worth, Texas in 1980, joined IAM Local 776A and advanced through various roles within the union. His experience includes work as an educator, safety advocate, and leader at multiple levels within the organization.
He was elected to the IAM Executive Council in 2003 as Southern Territory General Vice President. In 2013, Martinez became Resident General Vice President, where he oversaw the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center along with several departments at IAM Headquarters. In January 2016, he became IAM’s 14th International President.
Martinez made history during his presidency by becoming both the first person of color to lead IAM and the first Latino president of a major labor union in U.S. history. He focused on education, safety initiatives, organizing efforts, collective bargaining activities, and political advocacy throughout his tenure.
“IAM International President Brian Bryant stated: ‘Bob represents the very best of our union. 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 in Georgetown, Texas on January 24 during a dinner honoring Martinez alongside other figures from Texas labor history.
