IAM Union members gathered in Mystic, Conn., over the weekend for the semi-annual Connecticut State Council of Machinists meeting. Patrick Buzzee, President of the State Council, opened the conference with a robust agenda. This gathering brought together IAM members from various industries, as well as legislative leaders, to provide an essential platform for discussing labor challenges in the state and advancing collective bargaining strategies.
IAM International President Brian Bryant addressed the delegation with a powerful message of progress and vigilance. He highlighted the recent successes in securing strong contract wins, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and strategic negotiations in achieving these victories.
However, President Bryant also issued a stark warning about the new administration’s aggressive approach, pointing to over 150 executive orders, many aimed at undermining the working class. Despite these challenges, he urged the members to remain resilient and engaged in the fight for workers’ rights.
“The IAM will not falter on its promise to protect America’s working middle class, and an IAM union contract is one way to ensure that promise,” said Bryant.
In a forward-looking moment, Bryant also discussed the importance of embracing new technology, particularly artificial intelligence, urging union members to stay ahead of the curve and harness these tools to strengthen their positions in the evolving workforce.
IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan passionately addressed the delegation about the growing challenge of foreign competition in military shipbuilding, a sector vital to national security and proudly supported by IAM members in Connecticut. He stressed Connecticut’s critical role in producing these ships and underscored the importance of keeping this work in the hands of skilled American workers.
“Our members are the backbone of this industry, building the ships that defend our nation’s security,” said Sullivan. “We must continue to protect these jobs and ensure that the work stays here, in the hands of those who know how to get it done.”
Additionally, Sullivan spoke about the recent successes throughout the Eastern Territory, praising the collective efforts to expand the union’s influence and protect workers’ rights.
“These victories prove that when we stand together, we are unstoppable,” said Sullivan.
The delegation was joined by several legislative representatives from both the state and federal levels; members learned about the current challenges and strategies for moving forward during a difficult and uncooperative administration in Washington, D.C. This event highlighted the union’s ongoing commitment to advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and improved working conditions in Connecticut and beyond.
Among the most significant challenges for Connecticuters is the passage of a bill designed to lessen the economic impact on striking workers in Connecticut by providing them unemployment benefits after a two-week waiting period. The bill made it to Gov. Ned Lamont’s (D) desk last year, where the governor vetoed it, dealing a blow to organized labor. The state’s labor force vows to fight for and secure this worker-friendly bill.
Also speaking at the meeting were working family champions in Connecticut.
- U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, representing Connecticut’s 2nd District, has been a leading voice for programs that provide young workers with non-traditional education and critical skills, strengthening the backbone of our nation’s infrastructure.
- Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz comes from a proud union household and has tirelessly advocated for working families across Connecticut, fighting for economic opportunity and fairness.
- State Rep. Anthony Nolan of the 39th District has dedicated his career to supporting working families and championing vital services for veterans, ensuring that those who serve our nation receive the respect and resources they deserve.
- State Rep. Kevin Brown of the 56th District is a passionate educator who prioritizes skilled trades, vocational training, and non-traditional education pathways after high school, empowering the next generation with practical tools for success.
- State Sen. Saud Anwar of the 3rd District and medical doctor has focused on addressing the opioid crisis, particularly its impact on the American workforce due to competitive strain injuries, advocating for both prevention and recovery initiatives.
These leaders represent a shared commitment to uplifting Connecticut’s working families, expanding educational opportunities, and building a stronger, more inclusive future.
IAM Assistant Legislative Director Loren Almeroth addressed the delegation, highlighting key legislative priorities, including the increasing threat of foreign competition in the defense sector. He emphasized the need for policies that support domestic manufacturing and ensure the U.S. remains competitive globally. Almeroth also outlined the broad range of legislative initiatives the IAM is pursuing on Capitol Hill, focusing on worker protections, fair wages, and strengthening labor rights, urging continued advocacy and collaboration to push these crucial issues forward. Almeroth also praised National Political and Legislative Director Hasan Solomon, recognizing him as a champion on Capitol Hill for tirelessly advocating for IAM members and pushing for policies that safeguard American manufacturing jobs.
During his remarks, Ed Hawthorne, President of the Connecticut AFL-CIO, emphasized the importance of unity and strength in solidarity among the state’s unions. Highlighting SEIU’s recent rejoining of the national AFL-CIO after leaving in 2005, he celebrated the renewed commitment to collective action. Hawthorne passionately coined the phrase, “Solidarity isn’t a noun; it’s a verb. It requires action,” reminding everyone to build solidarity through ongoing efforts to stand together for workers’ rights and a better future.
Closing out the conference portion of the meeting, the Connecticut State Council of Machinists was honored by the Connecticut AFL-CIO with an award for their outstanding commitment to the 2024 election season. Exceeding expectations, the IAM contributed over 7% of their resources—far surpassing the 1% ask—for physical support during the election. The award was presented by Legislative Director Jennifer Berigan, Political Director Joelyn Leon, and Legislative and Political Organizer CC Cienawski, recognizing the IAM’s exceptional dedication to strengthening the voice of working families at the ballot box.
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