More than 35 IAM young workers and staff from across the United States gathered in Phoenix, Ariz., for the IAM District 142 Young Workers Summit to educate, empower, and prepare the next generation of IAM leaders through discussion forums, workshops, activities, and a committee fair.
The IAM District 142 Young Workers Committee organized the summit, bringing together emerging leaders for discussion forums, workshops, team-building activities, and a committee fair designed to connect young members with opportunities to become more active in their Local and across the union.
The committee is led by Chair Josh Charlier (Local 1976) and includes Coordinators Jacqui Elton (Local 601), Kayla Felix (Local 2339N), and Brian Sprout (Local 1903M).
WATCH: IAM District 142 Young Workers Summit Connects Future IAM Leaders
Participants engaged in conversations about leadership development, member engagement, and the importance of building strong connections across the IAM. The summit also created space for young workers to share experiences, learn organizing and communication strategies, and strengthen their commitment to the labor movement.
“IAM young workers are the future of our union,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, who addressed participants via Zoom. “When we invest in young members and give them the tools to lead, we’re strengthening the IAM for the next generation and ensuring our union continues to grow, fight, and win for working people.”
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The summit featured remarks and presentations from several IAM District 142 leaders and staff who shared their experiences and encouraged participants to stay active in their Locals and communities.
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“Our young workers bring fresh ideas, energy, and a strong commitment to our union,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John Coveny. “We want them to get involved, speak up, and not be afraid to step into leadership roles.”
“The energy and passion from our young members is inspiring,” said IAM Women’s and Young Workers Department Director Dee Colbert, who also delivered remarks virtually. “When young workers engage in their union early, they develop the leadership skills and solidarity that keep our movement strong for generations to come.”
IAM District 142 leaders emphasized the importance of mentorship, participation, and continued education within the union.
Additional presentations and remarks were delivered by IAM District 142 Secretary-Treasurer Zach Coker, Education Director Al Melendez, Director of Communications Todd Day, Communicator Robert Rodriguez, and General Chairs James Samuel, Ken Coley, Carrie Lessley, and Joe Schultz, and IAM Organizing Department International Representative Fabian Liendo and IAM Communications Department Representatives.
“It has been incredibly rewarding to help organize this summit and bring so many motivated young members together,” said IAM District 142 Young Workers Committee Chair and IAM Local 1976 member Josh Charlier. “Seeing the energy, ideas, and commitment from everyone here has been inspiring. I’m excited to see what our members take back to their Locals and how they turn what they learned here into action to strengthen our union.”
After the success of last year’s inaugural event, the IAM District 142 Young Workers Summit continues to play an important role in strengthening leadership development within the union by encouraging young members to become more involved, expand their skills, and build lasting connections across the IAM.
Through programs like this summit, the IAM continues investing in the next generation of union leaders who will carry forward the fight for dignity, fairness, and opportunity on the job.
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