IAM District 776 in Fort Worth has dedicated its union hall atrium to retired International President Robert Martinez Jr., honoring his more than four decades of service to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The tribute, which had been in planning for several months, features a gallery filled with photographs, mementos, and awards chronicling Martinez’s career.
Martinez began his journey with IAM in 1980 as an aircraft assembler and member of Local 776A. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, ultimately serving as the organization’s 14th International President for eight years and spending two decades on the IAM Executive Council. He was also recognized as the first Latino to join the council.
Reflecting on his career during the dedication ceremony, Martinez said: “This hall, this district, and this union has meant the world to me and my family. This union gave me a purpose when I was 20 years old. It gave me a shot at the American dream, to make a living and support my family. Together, we have improved the lives of countless IAM members.”
During his leadership tenure, Martinez guided IAM through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic by supporting relief efforts for airline and aerospace workers that preserved many jobs. Under his direction, IAM expanded into new sectors like healthcare and led AFL-CIO affiliates in National Labor Relations Board election victories between 2018 and 2022.
Martinez also initiated programs aimed at supporting members and their families. These included services for military veterans seeking VA claims assistance at no cost, an addiction services program, and a women’s leadership initiative called Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS).
The event also recognized District 776 President Directing Business Representative Paul Black and Business Representative Earnest Boone upon their retirement after each served 45 years with IAM.
Martinez expressed gratitude toward Joe Alviar, an IAM Business Representative, and his wife Linda for designing the atrium displays featuring memorabilia from his career.
“Again I say thank you. It’s been a great honor,” said Martinez. “Our leadership, headed by our great International President Brian Bryant, has the IAM going in the right direction. I can’t wait to see where we’re going next, and I’m cheering all of you and our union on from retirement.”