The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) New Mexico State Council convened in Ruidoso, New Mexico, for a weekend focused on union organizing, legislative engagement, and improved communication among local chapters. The event brought together IAM members from across the state to discuss strategies for strengthening the union’s presence in workplaces and communities.
John Dyrcz, President of the IAM New Mexico State Council and member of Local 794, opened the meeting by emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration within the labor movement. “Our state council meeting went great,” said Dyrcz. “Over the past two days, we laid down a strong foundation for the 2026 election cycle and updated our bylaws to make sure we have solid ground for picking labor-friendly candidates and next year’s elections. I want to see continued participation, and I hope some new individuals will volunteer to give their time and talents to state council leadership. My message for our delegates is to stay engaged, activate, agitate, and organize.”
Dora Cervantes, IAM General Secretary-Treasurer, provided a “State of Our Union” update, highlighting the union’s growth, recent contract achievements, and national campaigns to advance workers’ rights. Cervantes encouraged delegates to continue building on the IAM’s history of advocacy.
Robert “Bobby” Martinez, General Vice President for the Western Territory, addressed issues facing federal employees and federal contract workers, underscoring the union’s efforts to protect fair pay and workplace benefits.
Richie Johnsen, General Vice President for the Air Transport Territory, discussed ongoing negotiations with airline carriers and urged members to support air transport campaigns, noting that successes in one division benefit the entire organization.
Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to the IAM International President for the Rail Division, marked Local 331’s first participation in the council meeting and provided an update on challenges in the rail industry.
Additional speakers included Loren Almeroth, Assistant Legislative and Political Director, and DeLane Adams, Assistant Communications Director.
The council also updated its bylaws and discussed preparations for the 2026 election cycle, aiming to support labor-friendly candidates and encourage broader participation in union leadership roles.
The officers of the New Mexico State Council are: President John Dyrcz (Local 794), First Vice President Art Pardo (Local 2515), Second Vice President Virgil Thompson (Local 794), Secretary Treasurer Tina Davis (Local 794), and Trustees Lynnelle Jimenez (Local 1635), Bud Duryea (Local 2515), and Ron More (Local 2515).
The delegates concluded the weekend with a renewed commitment to building union power through solidarity and action across New Mexico.
