Tom O’Heron, a retired director of collective bargaining for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has died at age 69. O’Heron’s career with the IAM began in 1978 when he joined Local 21 after training as a machinist and starting work at the Trane Company in Wisconsin.
O’Heron spent more than four decades involved with the union, representing his colleagues as Directing Business Representative for District 66 before moving on to roles within the IAM International. He served first as Collective Bargaining Coordinator and then as Collective Bargaining Director, retiring in 2016.
During his time as director, O’Heron was responsible for negotiating contracts that provided fair wages, benefits, and protections for union members. His efforts contributed to strengthening the IAM and supporting its membership over several generations.
“Tom O’Heron was a true trade unionist whose work shaped our union and improved the lives of countless working families,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He will be remembered for his steady leadership at the bargaining table, his lifelong dedication to fairness, and his unwavering commitment to solidarity.”
Outside of his professional life, O’Heron enjoyed sports and community activities. He coached youth baseball and girls’ high school basketball teams, played golf, watched sports events, supported his granddaughters’ activities, and participated actively in his Catholic faith as a Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus.
The IAM expressed condolences to O’Heron’s family, friends, and all who knew him. The organization noted that he would be missed for his leadership and generosity.
