More than 300 delegates gathered at the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Retirees Conference to discuss the challenges facing retirees and to share lessons learned from decades in the labor movement. The event brought together IAM leaders, retired members, and guest speakers who focused on maintaining solidarity and continuing advocacy efforts.
Brian Bryant, IAM Union International President, addressed attendees by saying, “In the IAM you may retire, but you never quit. Our great grandparents fought to make our way of life possible, and we are here to continue that fight. We’re not going to let the billionaires and oligarchs tell us that our earned benefits are over. Hell no!”
A major topic at the conference was recent congressional proposals targeting Medicaid funding. Congress has considered significant cuts—$415 billion in 2026—to a program with annual costs around $880 billion. Some lawmakers argue these reductions are necessary due to claims of abuse within Medicaid; however, data shows that most improper or fraudulent claims stem from medical corporations and providers rather than an increase in ineligible recipients. Estimates suggest that such fraud accounts for $60 to $87 billion each year.
Many IAM retirees qualify for additional health benefits through the EBS/TLC Medicare Retiree Program.
James “Stretch” Little, IAM Retirees and Membership Services Director, told participants about his experience growing up in a union household: “I was raised in a union household, and I didn’t understand what that meant at the time. I watched my dad leave in the evening and go to union meetings. That’s the work it takes. That’s the fight that we all need to keep going. You know how to fight these fights, you have shown that over many years – and we need you now more than ever.”
Conference organizers highlighted retirees’ active role in organizing, voting, and political engagement on behalf of working-class interests.
Breakout sessions were held where participants discussed strategies for education, mentorship of newer members, and ways to encourage greater involvement among retiree committees throughout all levels of the union.
Attendees also visited vendor booths for information about union member benefits and some recorded videos aimed at younger members emphasizing solidarity during times of change within both labor organizations and society as a whole.
Other speakers included Dora Cervantes (IAM General Secretary-Treasurer), David Sullivan (IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President), Richie Johnsen (IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President), Robert “Bobby” Martinez (IAM West Territory General Vice President), Reggie Dixon (IAM Southern Territory Chief of Staff), Mike Evans (IAM Organizing Director), Hasan Solomon (IAM National Political and Legislative Director), Tony Blevins (Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines President & Director), Joe Gruber (Winpingsinger Center Assistant Director), IIana Boivie (IAM Strategic Resources Assistant Director), Vincent Ceraso (IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Assistant Director), Sean Marcil (IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Assistant Coordinator), Traci Drummond (IAM William W. Winpingsinger Education & Technology Center Research Librarian), David Lehive (IAM Communications Representative), Kevin DiMeco (IAM District 166 Directing Business Representative and Organizer), Robert Roach Jr. (Alliance for Retired Americans President), Yolanda D. Montgomery & Damian Anderson (IAM National Benefit Funds) as well as Andrea MonteCalvo (EBS Retiree Coordinator Licensed Insurance Agent).
The conference concluded with agreement among participants that continued action is needed even after retirement.
