Katrina Coleman, National Vice President of the Transportation Communications Union/International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (TCU/IAM), was appointed to the AFL-CIO Executive Council, according to a March 12 announcement.
The appointment places Coleman among the federation’s two top officers and 55 vice presidents who represent nearly 15 million members. The AFL-CIO Executive Council is responsible for guiding the work of the federation, with all officers’ duties outlined in its constitution.
Coleman has spent almost four decades in the labor movement, beginning her union career in 1986 as a clerk for Amtrak in Philadelphia. Her early involvement in union activism led to leadership roles at local, regional, and national levels. In 2014, she was elected Local Chairperson of TCU/IAM Local 1351 and held that position until the end of 2022. She later served as Assistant National Representative and then National Representative for TCU/IAM Unit 86, supporting Amtrak and SEPTA local lodges.
In addition to her leadership roles, Coleman founded FIERCE, TCU/IAM’s Women’s Committee, in 2022. This committee was established to address issues facing Local Chairwomen and connect union values with community outreach. She has also contributed as a member of the TCU/IAM Education Committee by mentoring new Local Chairpersons at Leadership classes.
IAM International President Brian Bryant said, “Congratulations to Sister Coleman on this well-deserved honor. Katrina’s election as National Vice President is a testament to the strength she has shown throughout her career. She has been a strong advocate for our members. Her appointment to the AFL-CIO Executive Council is a moment of great pride not just for TCU/IAM, but for the entire labor movement. I am honored to welcome her to the Council. She will bring that same fierce dedication to every room she enters.”
Coleman’s appointment reflects ongoing efforts within organized labor to elevate experienced leaders who have demonstrated commitment through advocacy and mentorship.
