Laura Ewan has been named Legislative Chief Counsel for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), with her appointment effective from January 1, 2026. The decision was announced by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Ewan will be responsible for supporting the political and legislative activities of the IAM’s Legislative Department and its political action committee, MNPL. “Laura Ewan is a relentless advocate for IAM members and a highly effective labor lawyer,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her leadership strengthens our Political and Legislative Department, which sets the standard for how unions win legislative fights, protect workers’ rights, and build lasting political power for working families.”
Ewan’s background includes extensive experience in labor law and union advocacy. She began her legal career at what was then the largest union-side law firm in the Pacific Northwest, where she became a partner before joining IAM’s Legal Department as Associate General Counsel in 2019.
Throughout her career, Ewan has represented both public- and private-sector unions as well as individual workers in various legal matters. Her work spans court proceedings, arbitration, and class action wage-and-hour cases focused on improving labor standards, particularly in Washington state.
“Laura has a deep passion for the IAM and a clear understanding of how the law can be used to expand and defend our members’ power,” said Hasan Solomon, IAM National Political and Legislative Director. “Her legal insight, attention to detail, and experience working alongside our legislative and MNPL teams make her an invaluable asset to our political and legislative work.”
During her time at IAM, Ewan has provided legal counsel across multiple areas while also contributing to legislative efforts. Her duties have included drafting legislation, testifying before government committees on bills supported by IAM, submitting legal briefs to safeguard members’ rights, and ensuring that MNPL complies with campaign finance laws.
Ewan holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Notre Dame Law School—where she served as editor-in-chief of the Journal of College and University Law—as well as master’s degrees in Spanish Literature from Florida State University. She also taught Spanish there as an adjunct professor. In addition to these qualifications, she earned bachelor’s degrees in International Affairs along with Latin American and Caribbean Studies from Florida State University.
