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) Union. This marks the first time IAM will represent workers at this military base.
The vote took place through a mail-in ballot election on December 30. According to IAM Assistant Organizing Coordinator Joe Solis, the results showed a two-to-one margin in favor of union representation. The newly organized group is responsible for maintenance and supply support for military helicopter operations at the naval station.
“This was a campaign that required patience, education, and a strong core group of workers,” said Solis. “The employees stayed engaged and committed, even when delays tested everyone’s resolve.”
The organizing process began with outreach through established networks and continued with direct discussions and educational meetings about union benefits. After the petition for representation was filed, progress 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 this period, Amentum hired around 30 more employees. Despite challenges from both hiring changes and the government shutdown postponing voting, organizers expressed confidence in their efforts.
Solis highlighted that being the first union presence at Naval Station Mayport presented unique difficulties: “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.”
IAM organizers pointed out their extensive experience representing Service Contract Act workers nationwide, especially within defense, aerospace, and aviation sectors.
“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 contract negotiations between IAM representatives and Amentum management. Talks 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,” added Solis. “That partnership is critical, especially during challenges like a government shutdown.”
