The International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) has recognized the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) for its achievements in labor communications during the 2025 Labor Media Contest. The IAM Communications Department received multiple awards, continuing a trend of consecutive annual recognition.
“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 is considered one of the most significant competitions for labor communication professionals, highlighting high standards in journalism within the field.
Among this year’s honors, Elias Flamenco Rivera earned third place for Best Feature Story with his work in the Summer 2024 issue of IAM Journal titled “Our Future, Our Fight: Seizing Momentum for IAM/Boeing Contract Negotiations.” Bill Harkum was awarded third place for Best Organic/Owned Social Media Live Event Coverage for Nevada Get Out The Vote, 2024. Deirdre Kaniewski won first place in Political Action/Social Justice/Campaign category for her design work on the “Our Future, Our Fight” graphics package.
“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 communications efforts were cited as central to its success, focusing on both worker struggles and victories.
Reflecting on organizational changes at ILCA, DeLane Adams, outgoing ILCA Secretary-Treasurer and Assistant Communications Director at IAM Union, stated: “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.”
The ceremony also included a tribute to Lisa Martin, former ILCA President Emeritus and Strategic Communications Director at LIUNA, who passed away this year. Martin was credited with bringing renewed energy to ILCA since assuming leadership in 2018 by encouraging diversity among communicators and guiding organizational growth.
