Tom O’Heron, a retired director for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has died at the age of 69. O’Heron began his career with IAM Local 21 in 1978 after training as a machinist and working at the Trane Company in Wisconsin. Over more than four decades, he held various leadership roles within the union.
O’Heron served as Directing Business Representative for District 66 before joining the IAM International staff. He was later appointed Collective Bargaining Coordinator and then Collective Bargaining Director, retiring from that role in 2016. In these positions, he was known for negotiating contracts that provided fair wages, benefits, and protections to IAM members.
“Tom O’Heron was a true trade unionist whose work shaped our union and improved the lives of countless working families,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He will be remembered for his steady leadership at the bargaining table, his lifelong dedication to fairness, and his unwavering commitment to solidarity.”
Outside of his professional life, O’Heron was active in sports and community service. He coached youth baseball and girls’ high school basketball teams, participated in golf, followed sports closely, and supported his granddaughters’ activities. He was also recognized for his Catholic faith and service as Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus.
The IAM expressed condolences to O’Heron’s family and friends, noting that his contributions to both the union and community will be missed.
