More than 120 helicopter mechanics and supply technicians working for Amentum at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Union. This is the first time an IAM-represented group will be present at the base.
The decision came after a mail-in ballot election held on December 30, with workers voting by a two-to-one margin in favor of union representation. The employees provide maintenance and supply support for military helicopter operations at the naval station.
“This was a campaign that required patience, education, and a strong core group of workers,” said IAM Assistant Organizing Coordinator Joe Solis. “The employees stayed engaged and committed, even when delays tested everyone’s resolve.”
The organizing effort started with outreach through established networks, followed by direct conversations and meetings focused on educating workers about union benefits. After filing a petition for representation, the process was delayed due to the 2025 federal government shutdown.
“That delay made things more challenging,” said Solis. “But the workers stayed united and were excited just to finally see the process move forward.”
During the campaign period, Amentum hired about 30 additional employees. Despite this increase in staff and challenges from the government shutdown postponing the election, organizers remained confident in their efforts.
This outcome marks an important milestone as it brings IAM Union representation to Naval Station Mayport for the first time.
“When you’re the first union on a military installation, it’s harder,” Solis explained. “You have to build trust from the ground up and spend a lot of time educating workers about what the union does and how it benefits them.”
Organizers highlighted IAM’s experience representing Service Contract Act (SCA) workers across various sectors including defense, aerospace, and aviation industries.
“We explained that IAM Union are the experts in the service contract industry,” said Solis. “We’ve delivered strong contracts for thousands of workers doing this kind of work across the country.”
Preparations are now underway to negotiate an initial contract between IAM representatives and Amentum management. Negotiations are expected to begin soon.
“This win shows what’s possible when workers stay engaged and the Organizing Department works closely with the territories and districts,” said Solis. “That partnership is critical, especially during challenges like a government shutdown.”
