More than 120 helicopter mechanics and supply technicians employed by Amentum at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Union. This marks the first time IAM will represent workers at this naval installation.
The decision came after a mail-in ballot election held on December 30, where workers chose IAM representation by a two-to-one margin. The newly unionized employees are responsible for maintenance and supply support for military helicopter operations at the base.
“This was a campaign that required patience, education, and a strong core group of workers,” said IAM Assistant Organizing Coordinator Joe Solis. “The employees stayed engaged and committed, even when delays tested everyone’s resolve.”
The organizing effort began with outreach through established networks, followed by direct conversations and meetings to educate workers about union benefits. Shortly after the petition for representation was filed, the process was delayed due to the 2025 federal government shutdown.
“That delay made things more challenging,” said Solis. “But the workers stayed united and were excited just to finally see the process move forward.”
During the campaign period, Amentum hired about 30 additional employees. Despite these changes and delays caused by the government shutdown, organizers maintained confidence in their efforts.
According to Solis, establishing an IAM presence at Naval Station Mayport is significant because it introduces union representation on this military installation for the first time. “When you’re the first union on a military installation, it’s harder,” he explained. “You have to build trust from the ground up and spend a lot of time educating workers about what the union does and how it benefits them.”
Organizers highlighted IAM’s experience representing Service Contract Act (SCA) workers nationwide in defense, aerospace, and aviation industries. “We explained that IAM Union are the experts in the service contract industry,” said Solis. “We’ve delivered strong contracts for thousands of workers doing this kind of work across the country.”
Preparations are now underway for bargaining a first contract between IAM and Amentum management. Negotiations are expected to begin in upcoming weeks.
“This win shows what’s possible when workers stay engaged and the Organizing Department works closely with the territories and districts,” said Solis. “That partnership is critical, especially during challenges like a government shutdown.”
