IAM International President Brian Bryant, a former pipefitter at Bath Iron Works (BIW) and member of Local S6, led a delegation of union leadership on a tour of the shipyard. More than 4,000 members represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local S6 are involved in building advanced battleships for the U.S. Navy at BIW.
The group included Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, also a former BIW shipbuilder and Local S6 member, along with other IAM General Vice Presidents, Chiefs of Staff from different territories, and staff from IAM Headquarters. The delegation toured major buildings within the shipyard, observed production areas, and boarded a nearly finished U.S. Navy destroyer. They also visited BIW’s training facility, which recruits individuals from nearby communities—many without previous mechanical experience—and prepares them to become skilled union shipbuilders.
“This facility is more than a training center – it’s a gateway for working people in Maine to enter a proud trade and build a better life,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “It strengthens the shipyard, our union, and the communities we call home. That’s what the IAM is all about.”
During their visit, IAM leaders met with Local S6 members at work and saw examples of their skills and teamwork.
“There’s a deep sense of pride and unity here that you can feel the moment you walk through the gates. Local S6 members are carrying forward a tradition of excellence,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “Now they’re bringing in new talent to strengthen that foundation.”
