Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) who are military veterans recently gathered for a committee-building class focused on service, leadership, and supporting fellow veterans within their union and communities.
The event brought together IAM members from various locals across the country, each with a background in military service. The participants shared experiences, enhanced advocacy skills, and developed strategies to establish or strengthen veterans committees at their districts and local levels. These committees aim to provide support for veterans both in the workplace and in the broader community.
Over the course of the week-long program, attendees took part in classroom sessions, workshops, and group discussions. They addressed issues such as navigating Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits and claims systems, connecting with available resources for veteran support, and organizing community service initiatives.
As part of their activities outside the classroom, participants volunteered at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. There, they collaborated to dismantle and rebuild a safety fence around a pond on the property. This volunteer effort was seen as an example of IAM’s commitment to community service.
Rich Evans, IAM Veterans Services Coordinator, said: “When veterans unite through the IAM, we create more than committees. We build bridges of support, leadership, and solidarity. 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.”
