Ryan Haehnlein has been appointed as the new Special Representative for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Midwest Territory. The appointment, made by IAM International President Brian Bryant, will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Haehnlein has been a member of IAM Local 701 since 2011. He began his union involvement in the heavy-duty trucking industry at M&K Truck Centers. As a Shop Steward, he was recognized for securing several grievance victories and resolving labor disputes for his colleagues. In early 2021, Haehnlein became an Organizer and was later named Business Representative within the same year. By June 2022, he advanced to Assistant Directing Business Representative of Local 701.
Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, commented on the appointment: “IAM members across the Midwest will benefit from Ryan’s deep experience, steady leadership, and unwavering dedication to working families. Ryan has proven time and again that he is a fighter for our members—at the bargaining table, on the shop floor, and in every role he has taken on. We are proud to welcome him to the Midwest Territory staff.”
In his current role with Local 701, Haehnlein supports members working in sectors such as freight, heavy-duty equipment, automotive dealerships, machine shops, manufacturing, and independent businesses. He has also contributed to communications initiatives by editing the Local 701 newsletter and helping develop both its website and mobile app.
Beyond his local duties, Haehnlein serves as a delegate and COPE representative to the Chicago Federation of Labor and holds the position of Secretary-Treasurer at the IAM Illinois State Council. In January 2024, he was appointed by International President Bryant to serve on the IAM Law Committee.
Additionally, Haehnlein has experience managing union funds as a trustee for various benefit plans including training funds and health plans for Local 701.
