The International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) has recognized the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) for excellence in labor communications in its 2025 Labor Media Contest. The contest, which is regarded as a leading competition for labor communication professionals, honored IAM’s Communications Department with several awards.
“The IAM Union Communications Department continues to lead the way,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Their dedication and commitment to sharing the stories of our members shines through in every piece they produce. This well-deserved recognition from ILCA solidifies their place as a leading voice in the labor movement.”
The ILCA Labor Media Awards Contest highlights outstanding achievements in labor journalism. For 2025, IAM received multiple honors: Elias Flamenco Rivera earned third place for Best Feature Story in the Summer 2024 issue of the IAM Journal; Bill Harkum was awarded third place for Best Organic/Owned Social Media Live Event Coverage during Nevada’s Get Out The Vote campaign; and Deirdre Kaniewski won first place for Political Action/Social Justice/Campaign design with “Union Swag, Union Drip” graphics.
“We’re not just telling stories, we are amplifying the voices of our members and fighting for the issues that affect their lives,” said IAM Communications Director Jonathan Battaglia. “I am extremely proud of our entire department. The communications paradigm is shifting quickly in the labor movement and our team continues to adapt to the challenges and generate award-winning content year after year.”
IAM’s Communication Department was noted for its commitment to delivering timely stories relevant to union members, highlighting both their challenges and achievements.
DeLane Adams, IAM Union Assistant Communications Director and outgoing ILCA Secretary-Treasurer, commented on recent efforts within ILCA: “When I first took on the role of Secretary-Treasurer, the ILCA was in a financially challenging position. It wasn’t easy, but we made some difficult decisions about our team and really tried to think creatively to get us back on track. We worked hard to demonstrate the real value of the ILCA, especially with our biennial convention. I am confident that the ILCA will continue to thrive and inspire the next generation of labor communicators.”
During this year’s awards, ILCA also paid tribute to Lisa Martin, former ILCA President Emeritus and Strategic Communications Director at LIUNA, who passed away this year. Her leadership since 2018 was credited with bringing renewed energy and diversity into ILCA.
Lisa’s spirit and vision brought a new energy to the ILCA when she assumed the presidency in 2018. She believed in ILCA’s shared mission and committed her time and energy to help grow the association. It was through her inspiring leadership that Lisa helped bring a diverse and talented group of communicators into our fold, guiding the ILCA in the right direction.
