The skilled Mechanics and Related at American Airlines and PSA Airlines in Charlotte recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of IAM Air Transport Local 1903M. These hardworking men and women are the heartbeat of the airline industry in Charlotte, ensuring planes are safe and our skies stay moving. This past year has been a year of achievements and a promising future.
WATCH: On the Flightline with IAM Charlotte Local 1903M
One of Air Transport Local 1903M’s most significant accomplishments has been their collective strength in increasing safety and quality standards for American Airlines Mechanics and Related Workers and Mechanics at PSA.
“I am extremely proud of the leadership at Local 1903M coming together to ensure that mechanics have a say at American Airlines in Charlotte,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “We will continue to provide the necessary resources to help grow this local.”
Since its founding, Local 1903M has seen impressive growth in membership and influence within the industry. The local has expanded by bringing in new mechanics and related workers from diverse backgrounds. The strength in numbers has only amplified the local power, enabling it to fight for better working conditions.
However, growth isn’t just about numbers. Local 1903M has also evolved in its ability to engage with the broader labor movement and continue working with IAM Local 1725 and the larger mission of the IAM.
One of the challenges that Local 1903M leadership has embraced includes their efforts to engage new and younger members. As the industry changes, Local 1903M has prioritized increasing participation by mentoring new mechanics and fostering a sense of community among all members. Initiatives like apprenticeships, peer-to-peer mentoring, and educational workshops have been tossed around as ideas to make sure younger members understand the benefits of union membership.
One of the most heartwarming stories over the past year includes the work being done by IAM Local 1903M Community Co-chairs J.D. Peace and Austin Hazel. They host “Hazel Hot Dog Hideaway” fundraisers throughout the year that allow American Airlines employees to purchase hot dogs to help support charitable causes. They raised over $51,000 last year and were able to help a member with stage 4 cancer spend one last holiday with his family before passing the following year.
“The biggest accomplishment so far is that we came together and started the local,” said IAM Local 1903M President Mark De Luke. “Now, we must take that energy to increase our numbers and fill out our committees. The goal is to allow everyone, including family members, to get involved.”
The future of this local is strong, and it’s built on the dedication and solidarity of its members.
“Our Local 1903M members at American Airlines and PSA Airlines help make the Charlotte airport operations successful,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. “I look forward to seeing some more amazing stories that will come from the members of this local.”
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