IAM International President Brian Bryant led a delegation of union leadership on a recent tour of Bath Iron Works (BIW) shipyard, where more than 4,000 members of Local S6 are engaged in building advanced ships for the U.S. Navy.
The group included Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan and several other General Vice Presidents, Chiefs of Staff from across IAM’s territories, and staff from IAM Headquarters. Both Bryant and Sullivan have personal ties to BIW as former shipbuilders and members of Local S6.
During their visit, the delegation toured major buildings at the shipyard, observed production areas, and boarded a nearly completed U.S. Navy destroyer. They also visited BIW’s training facility, which is designed to recruit individuals from local communities—many without prior mechanical experience—and prepare them for careers as union shipbuilders.
“This facility is more than a training center – it’s a gateway for working people in Maine to enter a proud trade and build a better life,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “It strengthens the shipyard, our union, and the communities we call home. That’s what the IAM is all about.”
IAM leaders also met with Local S6 members on site to observe their work firsthand.
“There’s a deep sense of pride and unity here that you can feel the moment you walk through the gates. Local S6 members are carrying forward a tradition of excellence,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, “Now they’re bringing in new talent to strengthen that foundation.”
