IAM District 776 in Fort Worth has dedicated its union hall atrium to honor retired International President Robert Martinez Jr. The tribute recognizes Martinez’s 43-year career with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), which began in 1980 as a member of Local 776A and an aircraft assembler. He served as IAM’s International President for eight years and was part of the Executive Council for two decades.
The atrium now features a gallery displaying photographs, memorabilia, and awards from Martinez’s time with the organization. Martinez was the first Latino to join the IAM Executive Council, where he played a significant role in advancing the union within the labor movement.
“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 leadership, Martinez guided IAM through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic by supporting relief efforts for airline and aerospace workers that helped preserve jobs. He also led efforts to expand IAM into new sectors like healthcare and contributed to making IAM one of the top AFL-CIO affiliates in National Labor Relations Board election victories between 2018 and 2022 (https://www.nlrb.gov/news-outreach/news-story/nlrb-union-election-petitions-up-53-in-first-half-of-fiscal-year-2022).
Martinez initiated several programs during his tenure, including services for military veterans seeking VA claims assistance, addiction support resources, and leadership opportunities for women through initiatives like Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS). These programs were designed to provide support for members’ families and increase advancement opportunities for underrepresented groups.
The ceremony also recognized District 776 President Directing Business Representative Paul Black and Business Representative Earnest Boone upon their retirement after more than four decades with IAM.
Martinez expressed appreciation toward Joe Alviar, an IAM Business Representative, and his wife Linda for their work designing the atrium displays.
“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.”
