Tom O’Heron, a retired director of collective bargaining for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has died at age 69. O’Heron’s career with the IAM began in 1978 when he joined Local 21 after training as a machinist and working at the Trane Company in Wisconsin.
O’Heron held several leadership roles within the union, including Directing Business Representative for District 66. He later served as Collective Bargaining Coordinator and then Director at the IAM International level, retiring in 2016 after more than four decades of service.
During his tenure as director, O’Heron was instrumental in negotiating contracts that provided fair wages, benefits, and protections for union members. His work contributed to strengthening the IAM and supporting its membership over multiple generations.
“Tom O’Heron was a true trade unionist whose work shaped our union and improved the lives of countless working families,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He will be remembered for his steady leadership at the bargaining table, his lifelong dedication to fairness, and his unwavering commitment to solidarity.”
Outside of his professional life, O’Heron was active in sports and community activities. He coached youth baseball and girls’ high school basketball teams, enjoyed golf, followed sports closely, and supported his granddaughters. He also served as Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus.
The IAM expressed condolences to O’Heron’s family, friends, and colleagues. The organization recognized his contributions to both labor advocacy and community involvement.
