The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has announced the death of James Conigliaro Sr., retired Eastern Territory General Vice President. Conigliaro, who was born in Brooklyn in 1956, served the union for over 40 years before retiring on July 1, 2021.
Conigliaro began his career as a maintenance mechanic at United Parcel Service in 1977. He advanced through various roles including shop steward, organizer, business agent, and Assistant Directing Business Representative of District 15. In 2003, he was elected Directing Business Representative of District 15 and joined the IAM Executive Council in 2015.
Throughout his tenure, Conigliaro was known for his dedication to union members and advocacy for workers’ rights across New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Boston. He also contributed to organizing Black Car drivers in New York City, which helped establish IAM’s national presence among ride-share industry drivers.
IAM International President Brian Bryant said: “Jimmy devoted his life to lifting up working families and strengthening our union. His leadership, compassion, and tireless advocacy made a lasting impact on the IAM and the labor movement throughout the Eastern Territory. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President, stated: “Jimmy was a true trade unionist who led with heart and belief that workers deserve a strong voice. He built a legacy of leadership in District 15 and across the Eastern Territory that will continue to inspire generations of IAM members.”
Norman Shreve, IAM District 15 Directing Business Representative added: “Jimmy’s impact on the IAM and District 15 cannot be overstated. He changed lives, built leaders, and set a standard for what it means to serve working people. His loss is deeply felt across our union, but his values and commitment to the working class will continue to guide District 15 and the IAM for generations.”
In honor of his service, IAM District 15 named its Lyndhurst district office building after him and placed a bronze marker at its entrance.
Visitation will be held at Marine Park Funeral Home in Brooklyn on January 28 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM; January 29 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for January 30 at St. Francis de Sales R.C. Church in Belle Harbor with burial following at St. John’s Cemetery in Queens.
The IAM extended condolences to Conigliaro’s family as well as friends and members impacted by his leadership.
