Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) recently took part in a program designed to strengthen support for military veterans within their union and communities. The IAM Veterans Committee-Building Class brought together participants from various locals across the United States, each with a background in military service.
The program included classroom sessions, workshops, and group discussions focused on advocacy skills and building veterans committees at the district and local levels. Attendees addressed topics such as navigating the VA benefits system, accessing support resources, and organizing community service initiatives.
During the weeklong event, participants also volunteered at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. They worked collectively to remove and rebuild a safety fence around a pond on the property as part of their commitment to community service.
IAM Veterans Services Coordinator Rich Evans emphasized the value of these efforts: “When veterans unite through the IAM, we create more than committees. We build bridges of support, leadership, and solidarity,” said Evans. “This program reminds us that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It continues in our workplaces and communities, where we stand together to care for one another.”
