The Winpisinger Center has opened applications for the 2026 Chris Wagoner Memorial Leadership Grant, which aims to support local chapters of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) in sending current and emerging leaders to leadership training programs. The grant is designed for locals that may not have sufficient resources to fund such training.
According to Official Circular 908, which established the grant, one local from each IAM Territory will receive funding annually. In 2025, eligible territories included the Eastern, Midwestern, Western, Southern, Canadian, Air Transport Territories, as well as Headquarters and vicinity, including the Rail Division. The grant covers all costs incurred by a local when sending a member to a leadership program at the Winpisinger Center.
The grant is renewable for each selected local. Members chosen by their locals can attend up to four annual leadership programs if they complete each previous program satisfactorily and if their local submits an accountability statement confirming their participation in and contribution to local activities.
Seven locals from across North America received the inaugural Chris Wagoner Memorial Leadership Grant in 2025: Local 550 (Surrey, British Columbia), Local 4538 (Towson, Maryland), Local 1894 (South Ozone Park, New York), Local 2916 (Corpus Christi, Texas), Local 104 (Huntington, West Virginia), Local 1613 (Vandalia, West Virginia), and Local W38 (Shelton, Washington).
The Chris Wagoner Memorial Leadership Grant was created by delegates at the 2024 IAM International Convention in memory of Chris Wagoner. Wagoner served as Director of the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center before his death in 2022. “Brother Wagoner, a 30-year member of the IAM, believed that expanding opportunities for Leadership training was critical to our future growth and strength as a union.”
Applications for the grant are due November 30.
