The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced the passing of Frank Carelli, former Director of Government Employees, on February 6, 2026. Carelli died at age 72 after a battle with lymphoma.
Carelli joined the IAM in 1977 and spent more than four decades serving union members. He began his career as a Business Representative with IAM District 137 in Syracuse, New York, which later became part of District 157. Over the years, he held several leadership positions at both local and national levels before retiring in 2015.
During his tenure as IAM Director of Government Employees from 2001 to 2015, Carelli played an important role in strengthening the union’s presence among federal workers. He was instrumental in bringing the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) into affiliation with IAM and was a key figure in efforts to defeat the National Security Personnel System. This work helped protect civil service rights for federal employees nationwide.
Carelli also served as a mentor to many within both IAM and NFFE, contributing to the development of future union leaders.
“Frank Carelli represented the very best of our union,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “He dedicated his life to defending working people and strengthening our labor movement. His leadership, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the power of solidarity helped shape the IAM Union we know today. On behalf of our entire union, we extend our deepest condolences to Frank’s wife, Missy, his children, grandchildren, and all who loved him. His legacy will live on in the rights he helped protect and the lives he helped improve.”
“Frank Carelli was an excellent unionist, a valuable mentor, and an incredibly loveable person,” said NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin. “Without Frank’s leadership and dedication, NFFE would not be where we are today. He deserves tremendous credit for the growth and success that our union has achieved since affiliating with the IAM. He worked tirelessly on behalf of federal workers, and I am proud to have stood alongside him for so many years. He will be deeply missed by NFFE and the entire labor movement.”
Throughout his career, Carelli was recognized for his advocacy on Capitol Hill as well as his commitment to protecting worker rights.
He is survived by his wife Melissa “Missy,” children, grandchildren, extended family members as well as friends across both unions.
