The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is increasing its efforts to organize a diverse workforce by offering specialized training for Spanish-speaking organizers. Fifteen IAM members from the United States and Puerto Rico recently attended the Spanish Organizing I Class at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center.
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes and Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen visited the class to speak with participants. Cervantes and Johnsen highlighted the need to “continue to strengthen the IAM’s organizing capacity by preparing members to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking workers and build collective power on the shop floor.”
The training aims to develop organizers, stewards, and leaders who can engage workers in their own language, remove barriers to participation, and ensure all workers have a voice at work. The program is designed for multilingual workplaces, which are becoming more common in organizing campaigns.
Spanish Organizing I provides practical skills and strategies for organizing workers and running successful campaigns. The course uses real-life case studies from IAM’s own organizing efforts, focusing on effective messaging, one-on-one conversations, and building a comprehensive organizing plan.
The next session of Spanish Organizing I will be held from December 13-18, 2026. It is open to all IAM members and staff through assignment by a General Vice President. While fluency in Spanish is not required, a basic understanding of spoken Spanish is recommended.
Locals or districts interested in enrolling members or staff should contact their General Vice President for assignment. For further information, individuals can reach out to the Winpisinger Center at 301-373-8820 or w3leadership@iamaw.org.
