IAM District 776 in Fort Worth has dedicated its union hall atrium to honor retired International President Robert Martinez Jr., who concluded his 43-year career with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) in January 2024. The dedication features a gallery filled with photographs, memorabilia, and awards highlighting Martinez’s contributions as the IAM’s 14th International President.
Martinez began his career in 1980 as an aircraft assembler and member of Local 776A after serving in the U.S. Navy. He became the first Latino member of the IAM Executive Council and led the organization for eight years, also spending two decades on its Executive Council.
“This hall, this district, and this union has meant the world to me and my family,” said Martinez. “This union gave me a purpose when I was 20 years old. It gave me a shot at the American dream, to make a living and support my family. Together, we have improved the lives of countless IAM members.”
During his tenure, Martinez guided IAM through significant events such as the COVID-19 crisis by supporting relief efforts for airline and aerospace workers that preserved many jobs. Under his leadership, IAM expanded into industries like healthcare and became a leading AFL-CIO affiliate in National Labor Relations Board union election victories from 2018 to 2022.
Martinez also initiated new programs for members including free VA claims assistance for military veterans, addiction services, and a women’s leadership initiative known as Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS). These programs aimed to provide greater support for IAM members’ families and increase opportunities for underrepresented groups within the organization.
The ceremony recognized other long-serving members including District 776 President Directing Business Representative Paul Black and Business Representative Earnest Boone, both retiring after more than four decades with IAM.
Martinez acknowledged Joe Alviar, an IAM Business Representative, and his wife Linda as key contributors to designing the atrium displays featuring items from his career.
“Again I say thank you. It’s been a great honor,” said Martinez. “Our leadership, headed by our great International President Brian Bryant, has the IAM going in the right direction. I can’t wait to see where we’re going next, and I’m cheering all of you and our union on from retirement.”
