The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has announced the death of James Conigliaro Sr., retired Eastern Territory General Vice President. Conigliaro, who was born in Brooklyn in 1956, served the union for more than 40 years before retiring in July 2021.
Conigliaro began his career as a maintenance mechanic at United Parcel Service in 1977. He quickly moved into union leadership roles, advancing from shop steward to organizer and business agent. His work with Local 447 led to his appointment as Assistant Directing Business Representative of District 15, which represents workers across several industries in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Boston.
In 2003, he was elected Directing Business Representative of District 15 and joined the IAM Executive Council in 2015. Throughout his tenure, Conigliaro was recognized for his commitment to union members and working families.
“Jimmy devoted his life to lifting up working families and strengthening our union,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “His leadership, compassion, and tireless advocacy made a lasting impact on the IAM and the labor movement throughout the Eastern Territory. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President, said: “Jimmy was a true trade unionist who led with heart and belief that workers deserve a strong voice. He built a legacy of leadership in District 15 and across the Eastern Territory that will continue to inspire generations of IAM members.”
Conigliaro played an important role in organizing Black Car drivers in New York City. His efforts contributed to campaigns aimed at improving conditions for drivers facing intimidation and exploitation. This work helped position IAM as a national leader in organizing ride-share industry drivers.
IAM District 15 honored Conigliaro by dedicating its Lyndhurst, N.J., office building in his name and placing a bronze marker at its entrance.
Norman Shreve, IAM District 15 Directing Business Representative, stated: “Jimmy’s impact on the IAM and District 15 cannot be overstated. He changed lives, built leaders, and set a standard for what it means to serve working people. His loss is deeply felt across our union, but his values and commitment to the working class will continue to guide District 15 and the IAM for generations.”
The union extended condolences to Conigliaro’s family—including his wife Gissel, three children, nine grandchildren—and friends.
Visitation will take place at Marine Park Funeral Home in Brooklyn on January 28th from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM; January 29th from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and again from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for January 30th at St. Francis de Sales R.C. Church in Belle Harbor, followed by burial at St. John’s Cemetery in Queens.
