Approximately 80 employees of UNIFI at Fresno Yosemite International Airport have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Air Transport Territory. The vote took place on December 3, following a campaign driven by concerns over stagnant wages, the absence of a formal pay scale, and lack of clear work rules or benefits.
UNIFI Fresno workers are responsible for ground handling and aviation services. They reported earning $16.50 per hour prior to the organizing effort, which matched California’s minimum wage. According to workers, their only pay increases were tied to state-mandated minimum wage adjustments. After learning that union authorization cards were circulating among employees, UNIFI management announced a wage increase to $18 per hour effective September 1. This move was seen as an attempt to discourage unionization but did not prevent the workers from voting in favor of joining IAM.
Employees also expressed frustration with management’s practice of establishing work rules without consistency or transparency, leading to instability and unclear expectations in the workplace.
“Congratulations to District 142, Local 1782 and especially our new members at UNIFI Fresno,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Bringing UNIFI Fresno into our union is another powerful step in strengthening worker power across the industry. We’re proud to welcome them into the IAM family.”
IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. added: “The vote in Fresno sends a clear message, Air Transport workers want the power and protection that only the IAM can deliver. We’re honored to represent these new members and are ready to get to work on their first contract.”
The process faced challenges including a federal government shutdown that delayed the election from its original October dates until early December. High turnover rates typical for vendor companies like UNIFI also complicated organizing efforts.
A key factor in maintaining support was Local 1782 President Frances Finau’s connection with Aakash Narayan, a Southwest Airlines Steward at Fresno who became lead organizer for the campaign. Narayan stated: “Being part of this campaign and standing alongside the UNIFI Fresno team has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. These workers showed incredible courage and unity from day one. Even with delays and challenges, they never lost sight of what they deserved, a real voice, stability, and respect on the job. I’m proud to have helped them join the IAM family, and this victory belongs entirely to their determination.”
District 142 General Chair Boris Kochanoff is now working with members through surveys about workplace issues as preparations begin for contract negotiations.
