Ryan Haehnlein has been appointed as the new Special Representative for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Midwest Territory, effective January 1, 2026. The appointment was made by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Haehnlein has been a member of IAM Local 701 since 2011, starting his career in the heavy-duty trucking industry at M&K Truck Centers. Over the years, he has held various roles within the union, including Shop Steward, Organizer, Business Representative, and most recently Assistant Directing Business Representative for Local 701.
According to IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli: “IAM members across the Midwest will benefit from Ryan’s deep experience, steady leadership, and unwavering dedication to working families. Ryan has proven time and again that he is a fighter for our members—at the bargaining table, on the shop floor, and in every role he has taken on. We are proud to welcome him to the Midwest Territory staff.”
In his recent positions, Haehnlein provided services to members in sectors such as freight, heavy-duty vehicles, automotive dealerships, machine shops, equipment operations, manufacturing, and independent sectors. He also played a role in enhancing Local 701’s communications by editing its newsletter and contributing to website and mobile app development.
Haehnlein’s involvement extends beyond Local 701. He serves as a delegate and COPE representative to the Chicago Federation of Labor and holds the position of Secretary-Treasurer at the IAM Illinois State Council. In January 2024, International President Bryant appointed him to serve on the IAM Law Committee.
Additionally, Haehnlein brings trustee experience from his work with Local 701’s Training Fund and Defined Contribution Plan. He is also serving as Trustee-in-Training for Health, Welfare, and Pension Funds associated with Local 701.
