More than 120 helicopter mechanics and supply technicians employed by Amentum at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). This marks the first time IAM will represent workers at this military base.
The election was conducted via mail-in ballot and concluded on December 30. According to IAM Assistant Organizing Coordinator Joe Solis, “This was a campaign that required patience, education, and a strong core group of workers. The employees stayed engaged and committed, even when delays tested everyone’s resolve.”
The organizing campaign began with outreach efforts by IAM through existing networks, followed by direct conversations and meetings with employees to inform them about union representation. After a petition for representation was filed, the process was delayed due to the 2025 federal government shutdown.
“That delay made things more challenging,” said Solis. “But the workers stayed united and were excited just to finally see the process move forward.”
During the campaign period, Amentum hired about 30 additional employees. Despite these changes and the election delay caused by the shutdown, organizers maintained confidence in their approach.
Solis noted that being the first union at a military installation brings unique challenges: “When you’re the first union on a military installation, it’s harder. You have to build trust from the ground up and spend a lot of time educating workers about what the union does and how it benefits them.”
Organizers highlighted IAM’s experience representing Service Contract Act (SCA) workers nationwide in defense-related fields such as aerospace and aviation. “We explained that IAM Union are the experts in the service contract industry,” said Solis. “We’ve delivered strong contracts for thousands of workers doing this kind of work across the country.”
Preparations are now underway for bargaining a first contract for these newly organized members. Negotiations are expected to begin soon.
“This win shows what’s possible when workers stay engaged and the Organizing Department works closely with the territories and districts,” said Solis. “That partnership is critical, especially during challenges like a government shutdown.”
