The International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) has recognized the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) for its achievements in labor communications at the 2025 Labor Media Contest. The IAM Communications Department received several awards, continuing a trend of recognition in recent years.
“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.”
The ILCA Labor Media Awards Contest is considered one of the most significant competitions for labor communication professionals, highlighting high standards in journalism and inspiring others working in the field.
Among this year’s honors, Elias Flamenco Rivera earned third place for Best Feature Story of an Issue with his work on “Our Future, Our Fight: Seizing Momentum for IAM/ Boeing Contract Negotiations” published in the Summer 2024 IAM Journal. Bill Harkum was awarded third place for Best Organic/Owned Social Media Live Event Coverage for his work on Nevada Get Out The Vote, 2024. Deirdre Kaniewski received first place for Political Action/Social Justice/Campaign with her design work on “Union Swag, Union Drip” as part of 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.”
IAM’s success was attributed to its commitment to producing timely stories that address both challenges faced by workers and their accomplishments.
Reflecting on past financial difficulties at ILCA, outgoing Secretary-Treasurer DeLane Adams stated: “When I first took on the role of Secretary-Treasurer, the ILCA was in a financially challenging position. 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 event also paid tribute to Lisa Martin, former ILCA President Emeritus and LIUNA Strategic Communications Director, who passed away this year. Her leadership since 2018 brought new energy to ILCA and helped grow its community by bringing together communicators from diverse backgrounds.
“Lisa’s spirit and vision brought a new energy to the ILCA when she assumed the presidency in 2018. She believed in ILCA’s shared mission and committed her time and energy to help grow the association. It was through her inspiring leadership that Lisa helped bring a diverse and talented group of communicators into our fold, guiding the ILCA in the right direction.”
