Richard Suarez has been named as the new Western Territory Coordinator for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), effective September 1, 2025. The appointment was made by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Suarez brings a long history of union involvement, having started his career with IAM in 1987 as a Reservation Agent for Northwest Airlines and a member of Local 1932 in Los Angeles. He later worked at Los Angeles International Airport, where he was elected Grievance Committee Chairman.
His background includes significant experience in collective bargaining and organizing within both private and public sectors. Suarez is bilingual in Spanish and English, which has supported his participation in various organizing campaigns and political rallies. He has also served as a lecturer at IAM Human Rights Conferences.
Robert “Bobby” Martinez, IAM Western Territory General Vice President, commented on the appointment: “A lifetime of service and leadership has prepared Richard for this important role. His experience, education, and compassion for working people will help strengthen our union and grow the IAM Western Territory.”
Over the years, Suarez was elected Air Transport District 143 General Chairman before being appointed Educational Representative at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in 2011. In that role, he trained members from across North America. In 2013, he joined the IAM Western Territory Staff as a Special Representative before being promoted to International Representative two years later.
