During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Tania Canniff joined IAM Canadian Airways Local 764 in 1988 after being hired in line maintenance at Canadian Airlines in Vancouver, British Columbia. She became a member of the same Local Lodge that her grandfather, Lawrence Pretty, had been a member of, and was a proud moment.

Growing up in a union household with union activists, she knew the importance of the labour movement and the importance of union activism. Not long after becoming a member, Canniff settled into the role of activist and advocate.  

“After becoming a shop steward, I was hooked,” said Canniff.

She was subsequently elected to a variety of positions at the local lodge level, including chief shop steward, negotiations committee, woman’s committee, and local lodge president. All of these roles, in their unique scope, allowed her to assist the membership, serve her union and give back to my community, all of which are her passions.

Canniff’s path of activism and development led to taking on leadership roles at the district level. In 2000, she was elected to Transportation District 140’s executive board and served as the first woman vice president of the board until December 2007, when she was first elected as a general chairperson, servicing members in the western region of Canada employed within the air transport service industry.

It’s a role Canniff continues to enjoy today, and one that she says is an honor to hold, as it allows her help and represent members and make a difference in people’s lives.

Most recently, Canniff was elected on behalf of the Canadian Territory to serve on the IAM Law Committee for the upcoming Grand Lodge Convention. She sees this role as another opportunity to serve the membership, and as another facet of development through the union.

“While I have faced gender and other discriminatory barriers in each of the roles I have held in our union, my continued involvement and development is a result of access to quality training, opportunities to challenge myself in various roles and assignments, and the great fortune of having many mentors and allies that have supported me along the way, or made my journey easier by paving the way,” said Canniff. “I like to think that people cross our paths for a reason, a season or a lifetime, and I am truly blessed by their guidance and friendship.”

“Tania is one of the brightest lights in our union. Her wide experience and knowledge of the IAM, her deep involvement in her local and district, and her participation in women’s issues, human rights and the rights of all workers has propelled her to the leadership position she is in,” said IAM Canadian General Vice President David Chartrand. “The crowning glory is that Tania is passionate and compassionate. This is a winning combination – for here, as well as the IAM. I couldn’t be prouder of what she has accomplished.”

Caniff feels that it is an important moment to celebrate the many contributions that women make to our organization. It is also time to acknowledge that despite the progress that has been made, gender inequality persists in our society and barriers remains within our union.

The pandemic starkly revealed the ways in which women still get left behind. Women were disproportionately impacted economically and carried much of the responsibility for parenting, when school and daycare services were disrupted. And far too many women experienced gender-based violence in our communities, and in our workplaces.

“We need to work together to eliminate gender-based barriers, discrimination, and violence for all members,” said Canniff. “Any form of discrimination and division weakens our solidarity.”

“Throughout my years of service, I have been a constant and vocal advocate of mentorship and am excited that I have been asked to take part in the LEADS Program as a mentor and an ally through shared experiences,” said Canniff. “The LEADS Program was developed by members for members, and will make our union stronger and more inclusive, creating a path for Sisters in our union to become successful leaders and activists. LEADS is an opportunity to open doors to so many female activists that often get overlooked, whose involvement can help our organization thrive, grow and become stronger. This is a groundbreaking moment for our union, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”

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During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Maria Schoening first got involved with the IAM when she and her coworkers were in the process of choosing between another union and the IAM. Schoening educated herself about why being a member of the IAM was better and the election was successfully won by the IAM.

She began volunteering around the local and getting involved with IAM CREST and the hazardous materials worker’s awareness train the trainer program. She advocated for the materials to be translated to Spanish in order to reach more members. Following that, she had the opportunity to go to other stations and help train. Schoening also had the opportunity later that year to go to Winpisinger Center and translate a hazardous material under a government grant.

In January 2022 she became Local 845 president.

“I am lucky enough to have an executive board that consists of five women out of the eight executive board members,” said Schoening. “These strong, intelligent, hard-working women along with the rest of my executive board have been amazing helping me and guiding on this new position.” 

Schoening credits many mentors along the way, including her former chair at United Airlines and former Local 845 Vice President Scott Meixner.

“Scott is kind enough to answer any question at any time,” said Schoening. “He is a phone call or text away.”

She also says how her ramp chair and Local Trustee Rod Fields is always there for a contract question or a Local Lodge issue. She says she cannot forget her Assistant General Chair Kyle Carroll, who has been a huge help assisting her and supporting her in every position she has held.

“Maria has been a fine example as a leader,” said Richie Johnsen, IAM Chief of Staff to the International President. “I am so honored to call her my sister in arms. As the first female president of Local Lodge 845, I could not be more proud to see her take on that leadership role.”

Some of the obstacles Schoening has faced is others who don’t believe she can or should be doing the job.

“As a Latina, my first language is Spanish. I speak with an accent,” said Schoening. “There are people that see that as a weakness, my accent as an obstacle. I have no choice but to work hard and let my dedication speak for itself.”

Schoening admires and can relate to Luisa Capetillo, a women’s rights activist and a labor organizer in Puerto Rico at a time when women were supposed to be seen at not heard in the early 1900s.

Sister Schoening’s advice to other women is to “get involved, don’t be afraid of making mistakes.”

“Help each other out,” said Schoening. “Don’t be afraid to reach out when you need to. You’ll be surprised how many people are willing and happy to help.”

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During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Melone Wey was a dues paying member for three years before she attended a union meeting.

“When I showed up, the Chief Steward said ‘oh you only come to a meeting when it affects you?’” said Wey. “This hit me hard and I made it a priority to get more involved.”

She began her union career as a steward when working at Gerber Baby Foods in Fort Smith, AR. She held many different positions before going to work for District 171 as a Business Representative. 

Wey admits encountering obstacles along the way.

“One of the hardest things is not everyone will thank you and sometimes you have to educate members it’s about the good of the body not just individuals,” said Wey.

“Sister Wey stepped into a District leadership role as a business representative when there were only a few female reps in the Southern Territory,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Rickey Wallace. “Sister Melone soon earned a reputation as a no-nonsense representative at the bargaining table that would get as aggressive as necessary to represent her members. She is viewed as an example of a Sister who has walked the walk and earned the respect and admiration of her co-workers throughout the Southern Territory. This Sister is truly an example for other Sisters who inspire to advance in our union.”

Wey’s mentor is retired Pat Harmon.

“Pat told me on her last day with the company to stay involved in the union,” said Wey. “That I would do great things.”

Wey says she admires Rosa Parks because she took a stand, no matter the cost.

She says that other women remember that “just because women have always been portrayed as a supporting role to men, it does not mean it’s not our time to rise up.”

Wey’s hope for the future is that “we get more involvement from women. From the local lodge all the way to the international level.”

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During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Lorie Wilson started her IAM journey at IAM Local 933, holding several different positions in her local and district before becoming the second woman to be a Special Representative for the Eastern Territory. Wilson was an Education Representative at the William W. Winpisinger Center prior to becoming a Special Representative.

Wilson says she never really thought about becoming a leader, she just wanted to get involved and help her co-workers.

“That led to learning and growing in this great union, and if it wasn’t for some very great Brothers, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” said Wilson.

Wilson says she encountered many obstacles.

“Too many to share, especially with no other women before me to help with those obstacles,” said Wilson. “My first obstacle had to be my very first negotiations as a Business Representative. Prior to starting them, then District 65 Directing Business Representative Norm Smith called the Chief Steward to set me up to meet the committee and the steward stated ‘we don’t want a ****** women.’ This shop ended up going on strike from September to February. But through all of that, they became one of my biggest supporters.”

“Sister Lorie is an outstanding example of a strong leader who makes the IAM a stronger more resilient union,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Brian Bryant. “She was the first representative I added to my staff once I was assigned to the Eastern Territory. Our members are fortunate to have her knowledge, experience and expertise available to draw from.  I am proud to call her a Sister and a friend. She is someone all our IAM sisters can look to for inspiration.”

Wilson credits many mentors for helping her along the way.

“My main mentor is retired Norm Smith,” said Wilson. “Norm saw something in me when I became local lodge president and eventually appointed me to Business Representative when he was retiring. He provided me with advice, guidance and support. I never felt like ‘it was just because I was a woman.’ He made me feel like I deserved it and I belonged.  I will forever be indebted to him.”

Wilson also credits many other mentors, including: Retired District 65 Directing Business Representative Jim Johnston, retired Assistant Directing Business Representative Peter Cooney, retired District 98 Directing Business Representative Bob Miller and retired Assistant Directing Business Representative Tim Buck.

“Retired Eastern Territory Grand Lodge Education Representative Donna Perinetti had some similar obstacles with working for the territory with no other Sisters on staff,” said Wilson. “She showed me that building relationships with our Brothers helps us conquer obstacles along the way, and we are stronger when everyone works together.”

Wilson advice is for every Sister to get involved in your local lodge.

“Don’t let anyone hold you back,” said Wilson. “Michelle Obama said, ‘there’s power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.’ For all members, learn that regardless of sex, race or orientation, we all need one another to keep this great union keep moving forward.”

“I hope our members learn that all of us belong, and if a Sister is promoted, it doesn’t mean they received the promotion just because they are a woman,” said Wilson. “Keep breaking down those barriers. Get involved in educating all workers who continue to try to bring us down and degrade us. We worked our asses off and deserve it!”

Lastly, she wants to encourage others to “continue to educate both our Brothers and Sisters on how to embrace each other and work together to take down any barriers that get in the way. I am looking forward to getting the LEADS program started and see all of our Sisters grow and meet their potential.”

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During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Jessica Deming is a founding member of the Local 63 Young Workers Committee. She later became the Woman’s Committee Chair and went on to be elected to the Local Executive Board. This year, she became president of Local 63.

She credits former Local 63 President John Kleiboeker for helping her to get her start as a leader.

“John encouraged me and provided opportunities for growth in the union,” said Deming. “Coming from a family with all sisters, to having all daughters, coaching softball, and now as a joint programs administrator, John is, and has always been, an advocate. My experience was that I could always count on him to ask me where I need him to stand. When there were injustices, he would get mad along with us, truly mad. The level of trust that John has built between him and the sisters should be the rule for other advocates.”

Deming says the biggest obstacle she has faced is feeling brave.

“I have always had the guts to speak up and be heard, but the further I move up in leadership, the more thoughts of ‘am I good enough’ creep in,” said Deming. “When I am facing a new leadership position, I worry if I will be able to handle the responsibilities. I wonder can I inspire our brothers and sisters to follow me. I’m out here banging on doors for opportunities, but when the times comes where they give you a shot, then you have to perform.”

“The aspect, if I’m being honest, that has been the hardest part is believing in myself,” said Deming. “I think many women, and I know I do, feel like we carry the burden of all women. When you fail or make a mistake, then it feels bigger than yourself. I’m not letting just myself down, I’m letting down the young sisters coming after me. I feel like those bridges that my generation are unable to climb will undoubtedly land on our sister’s tomorrow. I feel that responsibility very deeply. It is our young sisters faces I see when I think about giving in to the struggle.”

Deming credits the IAM women’s conference in 2019, including her role as a speaker there, for inspiring her to overcome that obstacle. She recalls other speakers who talked about how women tend to turn down job offers unless they feel they can do everything the position requires immediately. Men, on other hand, will go for a job they don’t know much about and figure it will work out.

The speaker, Deming said, “called on us sisters to be brave and believe in ourselves.”

“She asked us not to turn down opportunities because we are scared we won’t be able to cut it,” said Deming. “I really related to what she was speaking to, and when I am offered an opportunity that I want to do, I take it. I won’t say that it isn’t scary, because it can be. But, at the end of the day, I’ve learned my feet still work even when I am scared. I put one foot in front of the other and before I know it, I am coming out the other side, in spite of the doubt. That big scary thing that is in your path has been deconstructed, and you realize you were capable, and not only have you built faith in yourself, but in the brothers and sisters that stand beside you”. 

Deming’s advice for women members in the union is to not be afraid to speak up.

“Networking can be difficult for sisters. We tend to be main caretakers of the home,” said Deming. “We have less opportunity to build relationships that lead to leadership positions. We have to make the best use of our when interacting. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask a questions at your general meeting. Don’t be afraid to give an opinion, because it lets people know you can speak up for yourself, and it builds trust in you as a leader. Sometimes it can feel like we are all fighting for the same spot. We have to make the decision to uplift our sisters. We are all from different backgrounds and have had very different experiences. We should learn from each other.” 

Deming admired the late Western Territory Grand Lodge Representative Maria Santiago-Lillis.

“While I was trying to navigate how to move up in the union, I would ask Maria 1,000 questions,” said Deming. “She always would take the time to work things out with me. I knew I could trust her guidance. Maria, along with Mary McHugh and Julie Taylor-Frietchen have gone out of their way to put me in situations that are challenging. They would say ‘If you feel like we are picking on you, we are.’ Because they understood that the world can be tough for women leaders.”

“Jessica is a fine young leader who always brings hope and a great attitude into any question,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Gary R. Allen. “I can remember Maria telling me about Jessica’s great potential and her heartfelt desire to help people and her inner strength.” 

“I hope other members understand that we have sisters that really want to be involved.” said Deming. “I think there is this traditional approach to mentoring throughout the world, but we need to ask are we encouraging and presenting leadership opportunities in a way that inspires our sisters to grab those opportunities?”

Deming hopes that by sharing her story, “that we continue to come together. We should try to understand each other’s experience in a way that fosters unity”.

“I hope it inspires us to get to know each other and hear opinions from sisters that think in a completely different way,” said Deming. “We should always remember women’s issues are union issues. We are the unstoppable force in our union and everywhere else. With fist raised high we say, ‘We are the storm!’”

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During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Little did Nina Baldridge know she would be a union member, let alone the first woman president at her local lodge. Baldridge’s first experience with the union was on her second day of the job, when Business Representative Dempsey Jackson met with her and handed her a union card. Baldridge gladly signed.

Baldridge would go on to serve as IAM Local 470 Recording Secretary for 18 years until being elected Local President.

Baldrige admits meeting obstacles along the way.

“I was a single mom, plus my facility and my craft, instrument technician, is a predominately male field,” said Baldridge. “I know the women that came before me helped pave the way for my and others’ future.”

“Sister Baldridge has been a leader in her Local for many years, including being very active in her District, formerly District 161 and now District W2021,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Rickey Wallace. “Working in a primarily male dominated industry, Sister Baldridge has served her union with determination and represented our members with a commitment that has earned her the respect of her co-workers and fellow members. I am extremely proud to see this Sister step up to president of her Local and continue to being a leader in our great union.”

Although she didn’t realize it at the time, her greatest mentor was and still is retired Business Representative John Savoie.

“I had the honor of serving with John my first year as Recording Secretary, he had to really show me the ropes,” said Baldridge. “I did not know the structure of the local, much less what a bylaw was or their meaning. John had extensive knowledge on the collective bargaining agreement, and would go on to serve as union chairman, which was where he really helped me hone my grievance writing abilities and to learn when to listen and not let my emotions take over. John has retired but is still willing to advise me and hear me vent, even if it’s during his fishing trip.” 

Baldridge says she would like to recognize the women who took part in the IAM LEADS program at the Winpisinger Center.

“I heard some war stories that were shocking and relatable,” said Baldridge. “To know that even in top IAM roles, and for Sisters trying to get their feet in the fire at the local and district levels, that there are obstacles that are standing in our way. Our union is joining us to share the knowledge, the strength, and the fight to crush these barriers. It does matter how small or large your role is, it is important! Do not let anyone take it from you. We are vital parts of our union”.

“My hope for the future is to let our voices be heard and met with compassion we all deserve, and more doors to be open for all women,” said Baldridge.

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During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Kim Valliere began her union career as a member of Local 103 in Ontario, Canada. In the past 32 years, she has been involved in many different roles for our union, including Shift Steward, Health and Safety Co-Chair, Negotiation Committee member, Local Lodge President, Labour Council Delegate, President of the Ontario Provincial Council of Machinists (OPCM) and to now currently serving as District 78 Directing Business Representative (DBR).

Valliere says there have been obstacles, especially as she became more involved. She admits time away from home and her two small children was challenging and is thankful she had support at home and that her family allowed her the time to get involved and take on more and more responsibility.

“I can’t say that there haven’t been challenges, or difficult situations over the years,” said Valliere. “I lost elections, it’s hard to take, but I never walked away. I ran for other positions, I volunteered when I could, I wanted to stay involved”. 

“Kim is a shining example of the classic labour expression ‘up from the ranks,’” said IAM Canadian General Vice President David Chartrand. “She worked hard and stayed involved in her union, despite the many obstacles society places in front of women in general. She now stands as a model for IAM women everywhere. With the number of women increasingly joining the IAM, she stands out as an exceptional leader and sets a great example for a new generation. Kim’s resilience and perseverance have proven that with these qualities and hard work you get results. We are especially pleased she is being recognized this month and know she will continue working for our members with all the creativity, energy and dedication she has demonstrated throughout her career. The future is bright!”

Valliere has had a few mentors along the way that have come in many different ways.

“Sister Pauline Pegnam who was, and continues to be the driving force of the OPCM,” said Valliere. “Pauline’s knowledge and guidance benefits me to this day.”

Valliere says that she doesn’t feel the mentoring was intentional.

“They were just doing the work,” said Valliere. “They included me, and for that I will always be grateful.”

Valliere says she experienced first-hand their knowledge, ability and integrity representing the members while holding the employer accountable.

“I can’t talk about mentors without mentioning the Winpisinger Center,” said Valliere. “The leadership classes at W3 changed my life. When I first went to the W3 my eyes opened, connections were made, a spark was ignited and the realization that I belonged to this amazing union working together to better the lives of our members and workers everywhere was inspirational.”

Valliere says she admires Winpisinger Center Assistant Director Mary McHugh.

“The first time class I had with Mary at the W3 was a ‘wow’ moment,” said Valliere. “Mary is so dedicated to improving the lives of working people. She has a ‘do the work’ spirit that’s truly infectious when you are in her company.

Valliere remembers advice that McHugh gave her after a leadership class.

“Mary said to me, ‘you are a leader; I won’t be surprised to see you as a rep. someday,’” said Valliere. “Little did I know then, but with the support and guidance along the way from people like Mary, I’d be a rep.”

Valliere’s advice is to keep doing the work, since there is always opportunities for leaders in the IAM.

“Continue to raise your hand and volunteer,” said Valliere. “If you’re not successful in your run for a position, don’t give up, keep getting involved. Continue to participate, and let people know you want to be involved.”

“Women are a large percentage of our membership,” continued Valliere. “As we encourage more women to become involved, we have to be considerate and identify the systemic barriers or challenges that make it difficult for some of our sisters to participate and remain involved. As mentors we must encourage others as we ourselves were encouraged, lets help grow this great union.”

Valliere’s hope is that more and more women will become involved, aspire to be leaders and make it into leadership positions

“Hopefully one day the question will be ‘What is your hope for all workers,’” said Valliere. We’re not there yet. There is still a lot of work to be done. We will only get there together.“

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During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program. 

Dianna Koch became an IAM Local 743 member in 1986. She was very involved in her lodge and became a shop steward in 1989, holding that position and various other local and district positions for 24 years. In November 2021, Koch was appointed to District 26 Business Representative.

Coming from a shop made up of a majority of men, Koch says there were people who tried to stand in her way.

“But I learned to not let this stop my desire to use the union as a way to improve my life and the lives of my coworkers and their families,” said Koch. “It took decades of work to get the trust and support I needed to move forward”.

“The more I have gotten involved with my union over the years, the more it makes me realize that this is truly what I was meant to do,” said Koch. “I couldn’t stand by and watch my coworkers get treated the way they were and not step in to defend, assist or speak on their behalf whenever they needed me to. I can honestly say that throughout all the years that I have transitioned from one position to the next in my union I absolutely love what I do, and I can’t imagine doing anything else”.

“Dianna is a true unionist who is an inspiration for all our IAM Sisters. She is a proven leader of her Local Lodge, and was an easy choice for Business Representative for District 26,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Brian Bryant. “The IAM is a better and stronger union with Dianna in a leadership role for our members. As General Vice President of the Eastern Territory, I couldn’t be more proud of the work Dianna has done for our members and it is an honor working with her to better the lives of our members.”

Koch realizes the importance of mentors and says she had and still has an awesome mentor, Local 743 Recording Secretary Karen Blanchard.

“This sister has been there through thick and thin and always brings a fresh perspective to any situation at hand,” said Koch. “Her style of mentorship was to push me way outside of my comfort zone. Every time she did that, it made me grow as a person and it just made things easier for me moving forward.

Koch hopes to continue to mentor other sisters in the IAM and encourage them so they too can make great leaders in our organization.”

“Don’t give up,” said Koch. “Keep learning, keep volunteering, keep communicating, and most of all, be honest and admit when you are wrong. You should look inside yourself and emphasize your strengths and work on your weaknesses. Don’t let fear hold you back. You have a lot to contribute to this union. Let the women who came before you be an example of what is possible. Learn to accept good advice and always strive to look for the possibilities in others and help bring out their strengths and guide them in their journey. Don’t look at other women as competition. Look at them as future leaders. Be inclusive, not exclusive. Learn to pick out the people around you who are putting in the work to improve our union and our workplaces. Give them positions of responsibility and let them shine.”

Koch says she admires Hillary Clinton because she persevered through a lot of prejudice against women in leadership.

“She didn’t give up,” said Koch. “She believed in herself and her abilities. There are many other women I admire for these same reasons. Women like Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Kamala Harris, Madeline Albright, and Michelle Obama are names that come to mind.”

“My hope for the future of women workers is that it won’t be as hard for them to move forward as it was for some of us and that they too can be a part of the decision-making in our workplaces and in our unions,” said Koch. “I hope that our leadership will look more like our society and workplaces with all people represented”.

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During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Jana Kirch began her IAM career in 1993, the first year she started working at Peerless Chain Company. She followed in her grandmother’s footsteps, who retired from Peerless. Kirch was exposed to unionism from her grandmother at an early age. 

She began by volunteering to fill in as the Local Lodge Recording Secretary. Since then she has held many different roles in the union, such as steward, District delegate, women’s committee member, vice president, president, shop committee member, and shop chairperson, as well as helping on organizing drives and political campaigns. Last year, she became Directing Business Representative District 66.

“Each position was a learning experience and allowed me the confidence to pursue the DBR role,” said Kirch.

Kirch admits her biggest obstacle has been her own fear.

“Fear of failing, fear of being laughed at or mocked, fear that I would mess things up or that because I was a woman that I would not be listened to or taken seriously,” said Kirch.

She is thankful to the IAM for providing guidance and education for servicing members.

“The support system is an integral part of providing the confidence to pursue any career within the organization,” said Kirch. “I have learned so much from both past and present men and women who have proudly served our cause and are committed to ensuring that the next generation is prepared to carry on and expand our presence.”

“Jana Kirch is a woman every woman leader in our organization needs to know,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Steve Galloway. “She took her years of leadership experience at Peerless Chain and, with the encouragement of her brothers and sisters in IAM District 66, made the important choice to run for Directing Business Representative. A position that historically has always been held by a man. Her knowledge, skills, strength, and courage propelled her to a position where she is now able to make a greater difference in the lives of her La Crosse brothers and sisters. I look forward to her continued growth in our union.”

Kirch credits Tom O’Heron as being her mentor. O’Heron, now retired, at that time was District Directing Business Representative.

“Tom made me believe that I could do any job just as well any man could,” said Kirch. “He taught me to use my voice and not be so worried about messing up, because everyone does at some point. You learn from it and move on.”

“I admire all of the women within our IAM family who have chosen to rise to the challenges of making a difference in the lives of workers for the better,” said Kirch. “Their stories are inspiring and the work they have done and continue to do is amazing! It was not until I first visited the Winpisinger Center, that I realized how many women were getting involved and taking leadership roles. When Dora Cervantes became the General Secretary-Treasurer of the Executive Council, Tom’s words never rang truer: ‘Women are a force. We are just as strong, just as capable.’”

Kirch’s advice is to use your voice.

“You are stronger than you think and bring a different perspective to the table,” said Kirch. “We can be anything that we want to be, including leaders. We are not weak, we don’t need to be saved, thank you very much. Women are fierce protectors and nurturers, by nature. If given the opportunity, will use those qualities to better their environment.” 

“I would be thrilled to have a woman lead our organization,” said Kirch. “Presidency should not be a pipedream for women. Perhaps it would motivate the women in the workforce to not just settle but to rise. I want women to be equal in every way, shape, and form.”

The post IAM Women in Leadership: Jana Kirch appeared first on IAMAW.

During Women’s History Month this year, the IAM is highlighting current trailblazers in the union. Are you an IAM Sister interested in taking a more active role in your union? Reach out to your District leadership about the IAM Leadership Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program.

Diane Willaum started with the IAM in 1987 when she joined British Airways Reservations. She has held many positions throughout her union career such as shop steward, chief shop steward, negotiating committee member, Local 2656 Trustee, an organizer for the IAM Transportation Department, and currently District Vice President. Although she retired from British Airways in June 2020, Willaum is active with her Local and District Lodges.

Willaum’s sister, an identical twin and IAM Local 1894 member with British Airways said, “my sister and I always kid that we were born in a union so it was our destiny.

“I was very fortunate to have strong and capable union leaders who guided and mentored me,” said Willaum.

“Diane has dedicated many years of service as the President of her local and a Vice President of District Lodge 142,” said Richie Johnsen, IAM Chief of Staff to the International President. “We thank Diane for her dedication and determination to stand up and stand out as one of our women leaders. Diane is not just a leader in our union, she is a trendsetter.”

She credits Carol Creamer and Maureen Holder for always encouraging her and answering her questions. She was inspired during the three years of tough contract negotiations.

“Robert Roach and Joe Adonolfi were inspiring,” said Willaum. “No one does it alone in the union… that is our whole premise. I am no exception. I have seen our Brothers and Sisters fight for our members even while enduring their own hardships and struggles.”

Willaum says she has found that women face some unique challenges in the workplace.

“If I can give any advice to other women members it’s to please do not be afraid to let your voice be heard,” said Willaum. “We do not have to be loud to be right. Stay the course.”

“I stand of the shoulders of the trailblazing women who came before me,” said Willaum. “I have had the good fortune to be surrounded by women who help each other and fight for each other. I will always remember the people who gave so much of themselves and asked nothing in return.”

“Sister Willaum has seen a fine example of a leader in our New York City area,” said IAM Transportation Coordinator Edison Fraser. “She has been around for a very long time and has paved the way for many young women to follow.”

Willaum’s hope for women workers in the future is that “they realize their own strength and ability to lead.”

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