Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) who are military veterans recently gathered for a program designed to enhance service, leadership, and support for fellow veterans within the union and their communities.
The IAM Veterans Committee-Building Class brought together participants from various locals across the United States. Each attendee contributed their personal military experience as they worked to improve advocacy skills and develop strategies for creating veterans committees at both district and local levels. These committees aim to address the needs of veterans in workplaces and communities.
During the week-long event, members engaged in classroom sessions, workshops, and group discussions. The curriculum focused on identifying challenges faced by veterans, such as navigating benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), accessing support resources, and organizing community service activities.
As part of their commitment to community service, participants volunteered at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. They collaborated to dismantle and rebuild a safety fence around a pond on the facility’s grounds.
Rich Evans, IAM Veterans Services Coordinator, emphasized the significance of this effort: “When veterans unite through the IAM, we create more than committees. We build bridges of support, leadership, and solidarity,” said Evans. “This program reminds us that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It continues in our workplaces and communities, where we stand together to care for one another.”
