Richard Suarez has been appointed as the new Western Territory Coordinator for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), effective September 1, 2025. The announcement was made by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Suarez brings a long history of union involvement to his new position. He has worked in both private and public sectors, developing experience in collective bargaining and organizing. Bilingual in Spanish and English, Suarez has participated in various organizing campaigns and political rallies. He has also served as a lecturer and presenter at IAM Human Rights Conferences.
“A lifetime of service and leadership has prepared Richard for this important role,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “His experience, education, and compassion for working people will help strengthen our union and grow the IAM Western Territory.”
Suarez began his career with IAM in 1987 as a Reservation Agent for Northwest Airlines, joining Local 1932 in Los Angeles. He later transferred to Los Angeles International Airport where he was elected Grievance Committee Chairman, advocating for airline workers.
He was later elected Air Transport District 143 General Chairman before being appointed Educational Representative at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in 2011. In that role, he trained and mentored IAM members across North America. In 2013, Suarez joined the IAM Western Territory Staff as a Special Representative, advancing to International Representative two years later.
