IAM District 776 in Fort Worth has dedicated its union hall atrium to honor retired International President Robert Martinez Jr., who stepped down in January 2024 after more than four decades of service. The tribute features a gallery of photographs, memorabilia, and awards chronicling Martinez’s career, which began in 1980 as an aircraft assembler and member of Local 776A.
Martinez, a U.S. Naval Air veteran, became the first Latino to serve on the IAM Executive Council and led the organization for eight years. During his tenure, he guided the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) through significant events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, the IAM advocated for relief measures that preserved jobs for airline and aerospace workers. The union also expanded into new sectors like healthcare and was recognized as a leading AFL-CIO affiliate in National Labor Relations Board union election victories between 2018 and 2022.
The atrium display highlights these milestones along with Martinez’s efforts to introduce programs supporting members and their families. These initiatives include assistance for military veterans with VA claims at no cost, addiction services, and a women’s leadership program called Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS).
Reflecting on his career during the dedication ceremony, Martinez said: “This hall, this district, and this union has meant the world to me and my family. This union gave me a purpose when I was 20 years old. It gave me a shot at the American dream, to make a living and support my family. Together, we have improved the lives of countless IAM members.”
He also acknowledged those who contributed to organizing the tribute: “Again I say thank you. It’s been a great honor,” said Martinez. “Our leadership, headed by our great International President Brian Bryant, has the IAM going in the right direction. I can’t wait to see where we’re going next, and I’m cheering all of you and our union on from retirement.”
The event also recognized District 776 President Directing Business Representative Paul Black and Business Representative Earnest Boone upon their retirement after each served 45 years with IAM. Special thanks were extended by Martinez to Joe Alviar and his wife Linda for designing much of the atrium display.
