Chris Salinas has been appointed as a Special Representative in the Southern Territory of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), with his new role taking effect on January 1, 2026. The announcement was made by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, commented on the appointment: “Chris has always shown what it means to truly represent our members. His deep engagement in our union, his commitment to fighting for our members, and his leadership at every level make him a strong addition to the Southern Territory team.”
Salinas began his involvement with IAM as an aircraft composite worker during an organizing campaign at the L-3 Vertex worksite at Corpus Christi Army Depot in 2014. He joined IAM Local 2916 and was elected Shop Steward that same year.
His career within the union progressed quickly. In 2015, he became Trustee of Local 2916. By 2017, he was serving as Secretary-Treasurer of the Local and represented it as a delegate to the Coastal Bend Labor Council on both local and state AFL-CIO issues.
In 2019, Salinas was elected Chief Steward for the Amentum contract. The following year, he took on the role of Vice President of the Coastal Bend Labor Council and became its President in 2024.
Since 2023, Salinas has chaired both the Legislative and Organizing Committees for Local 2916. He has also served as Vice President for Region 6 of the IAM Texas State Council.
