IAM District 776 in Fort Worth has dedicated its union hall atrium to retired International President Robert Martinez Jr., recognizing his four decades of service to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The tribute includes a gallery displaying photographs, memorabilia, and awards from Martinez’s career.
Martinez began his IAM journey in 1980 as an aircraft assembler and member of Local 776A. He later served for eight years as International President and spent two decades on the IAM Executive Council. Notably, he was the first Latino to join the council.
“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 the organization through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic by supporting relief efforts for airline and aerospace workers that helped protect jobs. Under his direction, IAM expanded into new sectors like healthcare and led AFL-CIO affiliates in National Labor Relations Board union election victories between 2018 and 2022.
Martinez also initiated programs aimed at assisting members and their families, including support for military veterans with VA claims assistance at no cost, addiction services, and a women’s leadership initiative called Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS).
The ceremony additionally recognized District 776 President Directing Business Representative Paul Black and Business Representative Earnest Boone upon their retirement after 45 years with IAM.
International President Martinez expressed appreciation for IAM Business Representative Joe Alviar and his wife Linda for 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.”
