Laura Ewan has been named the new Legislative Chief Counsel for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), effective January 1, 2026. The appointment was made by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Ewan will be responsible for supporting the legislative and political activities of both the IAM’s Legislative Department and its political action committee, MNPL.
“Laura Ewan is a relentless advocate for IAM members and a highly effective labor lawyer,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her leadership strengthens our Political and Legislative Department, which sets the standard for how unions win legislative fights, protect workers’ rights, and build lasting political power for working families.”
Ewan’s background includes significant experience in labor law and union advocacy. She began her legal career at what is described as the largest union-side law firm in the Pacific Northwest, eventually becoming a partner there. Since joining the IAM Legal Department in 2019 as Associate General Counsel, she has represented both public- and private-sector unions and individual workers in litigation such as court proceedings, arbitration, and class action wage-and-hour cases—work that has focused on protecting labor standards in Washington state.
“IAM National Political and Legislative Director Hasan Solomon said: ‘Laura has a deep passion for the IAM and a clear understanding of how the law can be used to expand and defend our members’ power. Her legal insight, attention to detail, and experience working alongside our legislative and MNPL teams make her an invaluable asset to our political and legislative work.’”
During her time with IAM, Ewan has provided legal counsel across various union departments while assisting with legislative efforts. Her work includes drafting legislation, testifying before government committees on bills sponsored by IAM, submitting legal briefs on behalf of union members’ rights, and ensuring MNPL complies with campaign finance laws.
Ewan holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Notre Dame Law School where she was editor-in-chief of the Journal of College and University Law. She also earned both a master’s degree in Spanish Literature (where she taught as an adjunct professor) and a bachelor’s degree in International Affairs from Florida State University.
