Workers at V2X Vertex Aerospace in Fort Worth, Texas, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Union. The employees provide maintenance services on military aircraft at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport under a service contract. Their decision to unionize was confirmed through a mail-in ballot election that concluded on December 30. IAM District 776 will represent the newly organized group.
The organizing effort gained momentum in June 2025 when employees contacted the IAM for assistance. Keith “Chub” McCrory, an IAM Associate Organizer, said, “This campaign really belongs to the workers. They stuck together through delays, through uncertainty, and they never lost sight of why they wanted a union.”
McCrory explained that although discussions about organizing had occurred over several years at Alliance Field, progress accelerated after direct outreach from an employee. “We met with a handful of them, dropped cards right away, and let them take ownership of the campaign,” he said. “It’s their contract. It’s their future.”
A federal government shutdown in 2025 delayed the election process but did not deter worker interest or participation. McCrory noted, “I honestly thought the shutdown might cool things off. But they hung in there. That’s what made this win so meaningful.”
Some employees who had previously worked under IAM representation played a role in encouraging others and addressing misinformation about unions. According to McCrory, while there was some internal opposition among workers, the company itself did not conduct a significant anti-union campaign.
“In the end, people will see what a contract can do for them,” McCrory said.
The outcome is seen as important for IAM’s growth strategy in North Texas, where aerospace and defense service contract work is prevalent around Alliance Field. The IAM already represents V2X members elsewhere and is recognized as the largest aerospace and defense union nationally.
“Planting the flag out there was the goal,” McCrory stated. “This is just the beginning, a new beginning in that area.”
The campaign was led by McCrory and fellow organizer Joey Barnes with support from IAM District 776 leadership and members over several years.
“We wouldn’t be here without District 776’s help,” McCrory added, acknowledging support from Doyle Huddleston, President and Directing Business Representative of District 776.
