Chris Salinas has been named Special Representative in the Southern Territory of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), with the appointment taking effect on January 1, 2026. The announcement was made by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Craig Martin, General Vice President for the IAM Southern Territory, commented on the appointment. “Chris has always shown what it means to truly represent our members,” said Martin. “His deep engagement in our union, his commitment to fighting for our members, and his leadership at every level make him a strong addition to the Southern Territory team.”
Salinas began his involvement with IAM as an aircraft composite worker when he participated in organizing efforts at the L-3 Vertex worksite located at Corpus Christi Army Depot in 2014. He became a member of IAM Local 2916 that year and was elected Shop Steward.
He was elected Trustee of Local 2916 in 2015 and took on the role of Secretary-Treasurer two years later. During this time, he also represented his local as a delegate to the Coastal Bend Labor Council, addressing matters related to both local and state AFL-CIO activities.
In 2019, Salinas was elected Chief Steward for the Amentum contract. He then became Vice President of the Coastal Bend Labor Council in 2020 before being elected its President in 2024.
Since 2023, Salinas has chaired both the Legislative and Organizing Committees for Local 2916. He has also served as Vice President for Region 6 of the IAM Texas State Council.
