The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Retirees Conference brought together over 300 delegates to discuss strategies for defending earned benefits and strengthening the labor movement. The event, held in late October 2025, featured leaders and long-standing members sharing experiences and guidance with each other.
“In the IAM you may retire, but you never quit,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Our great grandparents fought to make our way of life possible, and we are here to continue that fight. We’re not going to let the billionaires and oligarchs tell us that our earned benefits are over. Hell no!”
A major topic at the conference was recent legislative efforts to cut Medicaid funding. Congress has proposed $415 billion in cuts for 2026 as part of a bill targeting a program with annual costs of $880 billion. Some critics claim abuse within Medicaid is due to ineligible recipients, but data indicates that improper claims—estimated between $60 billion and $87 billion per year—are largely due to fraudulent billing by medical providers rather than individuals. Many IAM retirees access additional benefits through the EBS/TLC Medicare Retiree Program.
James “Stretch” Little, IAM Retirees and Membership Services Director, addressed attendees: “I was raised in a union household, and I didn’t understand what that meant at the time,” he said. “I watched my dad leave in the evening and go to union meetings. That’s the work it takes. That’s the fight that we all need to keep going. You know how to fight these fights, you have shown that over many years – and we need you now more than ever.”
The conference emphasized retirees’ role as organizers who communicate effectively, mobilize voters, and contribute significantly in political advocacy for working-class issues.
Delegates participated in breakout sessions aimed at organizing local efforts upon their return home. They discussed expanding retiree committees throughout the union structure so experienced members can mentor others.
Participants also engaged with vendors on site for information about member benefits available through IAM membership.
Guest speakers included Dora Cervantes (IAM General Secretary-Treasurer), David Sullivan (IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President), Richie Johnsen (IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President), Robert “Bobby” Martinez (IAM West Territory General Vice President), Reggie Dixon (IAM Southern Territory Chief of Staff), Mike Evans (IAM Organizing Director), Hasan Solomon (IAM National Political and Legislative Director), Tony Blevins (Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines President & Director), Joe Gruber (Winpingsinger Center Assistant Director), IIana Boivie (IAM Strategic Resources Assistant Director), Vincent Ceraso (IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Assistant Director), Sean Marcil (IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Assistant Coordinator), Traci Drummond (IAM William W. Winpingsinger Education & Technology Center Research Librarian), David Lehive (IAM Communications Representative), Kevin DiMeco (IAM District 166 Directing Business Representative and Organizer), Robert Roach Jr. (Alliance for Retired Americans President), Yolanda D. Montgomery & Damian Anderson (IAM National Benefit Funds) and Andrea MonteCalvo (EBS Retiree Coordinator Licensed Insurance Agent).
The conference concluded with calls for ongoing involvement from retired members: even after leaving active service, their experience remains crucial for future advocacy.
