Members of IAM Union Local S6 at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works (BIW) recently gathered to honor Amber Czech, a 20-year-old welder and educator who was killed by a coworker on November 11, 2025, in Cokato, Minnesota. The event aimed to draw attention to the issue of workplace violence and emphasize the need for greater protection for women working in skilled trades.
Amber Czech was recognized for her dedication both as a welder and as an instructor who taught welding at her former high school during her days off. The tribute organized by Local S6 highlighted the urgency of addressing safety concerns for women in industrial workplaces.
Megan McCandless, a BIW welder and member of IAM Union Local S6, led the event. She stated, “I thought we had a responsibility through the company and the Union to shed light and recognize what happened in honor of Amber. We had women from the company and the Union coming together in honor of Amber Czech. It is a woman’s issue, and it is so important to have each other’s back in the workplace.”
General Dynamics Bath Iron Works produced a video documenting the tribute, which included remarks from McCandless.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant commented on Czech’s death: “Amber was one of us, a young, talented welder who loved her craft and her community. Her life was brutally stolen. This kind of workplace violence is a horror no family or coworker should ever have to endure. The IAM and Local S6 stand united in saying it will never be tolerated. We owe it to Amber, and to every worker, to fight for dignity, safety, and respect on the job.”
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President and Local S6 member, noted that only six percent of welders in the U.S. trades workforce are women—a statistic that can contribute to feelings of isolation among female workers. He said: “Amber should have had a long, successful career. The Eastern Territory is committed to ensuring that no worker ever feels isolated, threatened, or unsafe. Solidarity means stepping up for one another, and we will not fail.”
Chris Williams, President of IAM Union Local S6 added: “No one should ever come to work fearing violence or harassment. Our union is a family that shows up for each other. This powerful tribute reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting everyone on the shop floor.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired members across various industries including aerospace, defense, shipbuilding, railroads, transit systems, healthcare services as well as automotive sectors throughout North America.
