The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) New Jersey State Council (NJSC) convened its annual meeting, gathering more than 100 union leaders, political advocates, and members from across the state. The focus was on advancing pro-worker legislation and preparing for the 2025 gubernatorial election.
The NJSC represents over 20,000 IAM members in New Jersey. The meeting was led by Cristino Vilorio, President of the NJSC and Area Director for IAM District 15. Attendees heard from several members of the IAM Executive Council, including International President Brian Bryant, Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett.
“Our union’s strength lies in our ability to organize, mobilize, and legislate,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The work being done here in New Jersey is a model for building power at the state level and fighting for legislation like fair wages for IAM auto technicians.”
Richie Johnsen provided updates about contracts in the airline industry. Jody Bennett stressed the importance of supporting the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) PAC to sustain legislative efforts nationwide.
David Sullivan opened the second day with a call for unity among delegates. Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff, spoke about the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS), highlighting its role in strengthening union leadership.
“We can’t let hate in politics divide our nation,” said Sullivan. “We must stay focused on fighting for a stronger labor movement, and that fight starts here in New Jersey.”
Hasan Solomon, National Legislative and Political Director for IAM, emphasized that political engagement is crucial: “In 2025, your voice can be heard LOUD and CLEAR by getting out the vote for IAM endorsed candidates.”
During the event, TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea presented retired TCU/IAM National Vice President Billy DeCarlo with the Frank Darcy Award for Leadership. This award honors significant contributions to legislative advocacy within the union.
Elected officials who addressed delegates included Rep. Bonnie Coleman (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., and Katie Brennan, candidate for Congressional District 32.
Delegates marked a legislative achievement with passage of the Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act (A4380/S3309). The law ensures fair wages for automotive dealership mechanics statewide after passing both chambers unanimously—a result attributed to NJSC lobbying efforts (source).
IAM continues to represent hundreds of skilled automotive technicians throughout New Jersey while advocating policies that support working families.
“With a critical election season ahead, the IAM New Jersey State Council is laser-focused on supporting candidates who fight for working families,” said Vilorio. “We are ready to work to make Mikie Sherrill our next governor and elect pro-labor candidates across the state. I want to thank everyone for helping make this year’s state council meeting a success and it was exciting to celebrate the passage of legislation for our members working at automobile dealerships across New Jersey.”
