The International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) has recognized the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Communications Department with several awards in its 2025 Labor Media Contest. The ILCA Labor Media Awards Contest is regarded as the largest and longest-running competition for labor communications, highlighting excellence in journalism within the field.
“The IAM Union Communications Department continues to lead the way,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Their dedication and commitment to sharing the stories of our members shines through in every piece they produce. This well-deserved recognition from ILCA solidifies their place as a leading voice in the labor movement.”
Among this year’s honors, Elias Flamenco Rivera received third place for Best Feature Story of an Issue for his article in the Summer 2024 IAM Journal titled “Our Future, Our Fight: Seizing Momentum for IAM/Boeing Contract Negotiations.” Bill Harkum was awarded third place in Social Media for his coverage of Nevada’s Get Out The Vote event in 2024. Deirdre Kaniewski, IAM Union District 751 Communications Director, won first place for Political Action/Social Justice/Campaign with her design work on the “Our Future, Our Fight” graphics package.
“We’re not just telling stories, we are amplifying the voices of our members and fighting for the issues that affect their lives,” said IAM Communications Director Jonathan Battaglia. “I am extremely proud of our entire department. The communications paradigm is shifting quickly in the labor movement and our team continues to adapt to the challenges and generate award-winning content year after year.”
The department’s success was attributed to its focus on delivering relevant stories about union members’ experiences and achievements.
“When I first took on the role of Secretary-Treasurer, the ILCA was in a financially challenging position,” said IAM Union Assistant Communications Director and Outgoing ILCA Secretary-Treasurer DeLane Adams. “It wasn’t easy, but we made some difficult decisions about our team and really tried to think creatively to get us back on track. We worked hard to demonstrate the real value of the ILCA, especially with our biennial convention. I am confident that the ILCA will continue to thrive and inspire the next generation of labor communicators.”
The contest also included a tribute to Lisa Martin, former ILCA President Emeritus and Strategic Communications Director at LIUNA, who passed away this year. According to those who worked with her, Lisa Martin brought renewed energy to ILCA since taking over as president in 2018 by encouraging diversity among communicators and helping guide organizational growth.
