The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is expanding its organizing capabilities by focusing on multilingual training. Fifteen IAM members from across the United States and Puerto Rico recently attended the Spanish Organizing I Class at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center.
During the session, IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes and Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen addressed participants. They highlighted the need to strengthen IAM’s organizing capacity by preparing members to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking workers and build collective power in workplaces.
“This training helps develop stronger organizers, stewards, and leaders who can connect with workers in their own language, remove barriers to participation, and ensure every worker has a real voice on the job. As organizing campaigns increasingly involve multilingual workplaces, this type of training is essential to winning elections, securing strong contracts, and growing our union,” according to IAM leadership.
The Spanish Organizing I course provides practical skills for organizing workers using case studies from previous IAM efforts. The curriculum focuses on effective messaging, one-on-one conversations, and key components for building successful organizing plans.
The next session of Spanish Organizing I is scheduled for December 13–18, 2026. It is open to all IAM members and staff through assignment by a General Vice President. While fluency in Spanish is not required, a basic understanding of spoken Spanish is recommended.
Locals or districts interested in enrolling members or staff are encouraged to contact their General Vice President for assignment. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Winpisinger Center at 301-373-8820 or via email at w3leadership@iamaw.org.
