The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has continued its efforts to strengthen its organizing abilities by training members to reach a more diverse workforce. Fifteen IAM members from the United States and Puerto Rico recently completed the Spanish Organizing I Class at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center.
Dora Cervantes, IAM General Secretary-Treasurer, and Richie Johnsen, IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President, addressed participants during the class. They stressed the need for organizers who can effectively communicate with Spanish-speaking workers. “This training helps develop stronger organizers, stewards, and leaders who can connect with workers in their own language, remove barriers to participation, and ensure every worker has a real voice on the job,” said Cervantes. She added that as more organizing campaigns involve multilingual workplaces, such training is vital for winning union elections and securing contracts.
The Spanish Organizing I program provides practical skills for running successful organizing campaigns. Participants learn strategies based on real-life examples from previous IAM efforts, focusing on clear messaging, one-on-one conversations, and building effective organizing plans.
The next session of Spanish Organizing I is scheduled for December 13–18, 2026. It will be open to all IAM members and staff assigned by a General Vice President. Fluency in Spanish is not required but some knowledge of spoken Spanish is helpful.
Local unions or districts interested in enrolling members are encouraged to contact their General Vice President for assignment. Additional information is available from the Winpisinger Center at 301-373-8820 or w3leadership@iamaw.org.
