IAM members, retirees, and staff attended the 2025 Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) Convention in San Diego, California. The event brought together women and supporters from various labor unions to focus on strengthening women’s roles within the labor movement and their communities.
A significant moment for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at this year’s convention was the transition in leadership. Julie Frietchen, who served as IAM’s Women and Young Workers Director and CLUW Vice President for IAM, handed over her position to Demetress Colbert. Colbert will officially assume the role of IAM Women and Young Workers Director on January 1, 2026.
“I want the IAM to build our presence and activism in CLUW,” said Colbert. “I’m excited to take on this role and recruit more sisters to become active in CLUW, to carry what they learn back to their unions, to build the courage to take on leadership positions, and to lift up fellow women.”
Delegates at the convention elected new vice presidents for each participating union. Demetress Colbert ran unopposed for IAM’s seat with support from IAM International President Brian Bryant. Sylvia J. Ramos of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) was elected as CLUW National President.
Before official proceedings began, attendees participated in workshops covering topics such as workers’ rights, international garment workers’ justice campaigns, health improvement strategies, labor history, and organizing basics.
Alana Kirkpatrick, Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Local 850 and Oklahoma State Council President, commented on the impact of these sessions: “The workshops were not only interesting and educational, but they also cultivated camaraderie. In addition to tending to the business of the Convention, passing resolutions and constitutional amendments, we were able to discuss challenges in the workplace specific to women and how we can support ourselves and each other.”
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes addressed attendees through a video message due to other union commitments preventing her from attending in person. “First, let me say how truly sorry I am that I can’t be there with you in person,“ said Cervantes in her video message. “There’s nothing like being in a room full of powerful union women, sharing stories, strength, and strategy.”
Cervantes also recognized outgoing director Julie Frietchen: “Thank you for your friendship, your fire, and your lifelong dedication to lifting women in this movement,” said Cervantes to Frietchen. “You make all of us at the IAM so proud.”
Delegates voted on resolutions that will guide CLUW’s direction for the next two years.
“It’s very important for women to come together in a space like this where we can connect with each other, share experiences, and support one another in the challenges we face as working women, especially as workers’ and women’s rights are under attack,” said Frietchen. “It’s how we build strength in our workplaces and community in our lives.”
The convention drew around 400 delegates from major unions across North America.
