The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) New Jersey State Council (NJSC) recently convened its annual meeting, drawing over 100 union leaders, political advocates, and members from across New Jersey. The gathering focused on advancing pro-worker legislation and preparing for the 2025 gubernatorial election.
The NJSC represents more than 20,000 IAM members in New Jersey. The meeting was led by Cristino Vilorio, President of the NJSC and Area Director for IAM District 15. Attendees heard from several IAM Executive Council members, including International President Brian Bryant, Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett.
“Our union’s strength lies in our ability to organize, mobilize, and legislate,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The work being done here in New Jersey is a model for building power at the state level and fighting for legislation like fair wages for IAM auto technicians.”
Richie Johnsen addressed delegates with updates about industry-leading contracts secured in the airline sector. More information about these contracts can be found at https://x.com/iamairtransport/status/1952436439930560949.
Jody Bennett highlighted the importance of supporting the union’s Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) PAC to maintain legislative efforts nationwide.
David Sullivan opened the second day of meetings with a message emphasizing unity within the labor movement. Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff, spoke about the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS), which aims to strengthen union leadership among women.
“We can’t let hate in politics divide our nation,” said Sullivan. “We must stay focused on fighting for a stronger labor movement, and that fight starts here in New Jersey.”
Hasan Solomon, National Legislative and Political Director for IAM, reminded delegates about the impact of political engagement: “In 2025, your voice can be heard LOUD and CLEAR by getting out the vote for IAM endorsed candidates.”
During the event, TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea presented the Frank Darcy Award for Leadership to retired TCU/IAM National Vice President Billy DeCarlo. This award recognizes significant contributions to legislative advocacy within the union.
Elected officials who addressed attendees included Rep. Bonnie Coleman (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., and congressional candidate Katie Brennan.
Delegates also celebrated a recent legislative achievement: passage of the Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act (A4380/S3309). This law ensures fair wages for automotive dealership mechanics statewide after receiving unanimous bipartisan support in both chambers—a result attributed largely to lobbying by NJSCM members.
The IAM continues to represent hundreds of skilled automotive technicians across New Jersey while advocating policies aimed at supporting working families.
“With a critical election season ahead, the IAM New Jersey State Council is laser-focused on supporting candidates who fight for working families,” said Vilorio. “We are ready to work to make Mikie Sherrill our next governor and elect pro-labor candidates across the state. I want to thank everyone for helping make this year’s state council meeting a success and it was exciting to celebrate the passage of legislation for our members working at automobile dealerships across New Jersey.”
