The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced the death of James Conigliaro Sr., who served as Eastern Territory General Vice President before retiring in 2021. Conigliaro spent over 40 years with the union, working to improve conditions for its members and their families.
Born in Brooklyn in 1956, Conigliaro began his career as a maintenance mechanic at United Parcel Service in 1977. He advanced through various leadership roles within IAM, including shop steward, organizer, business agent, and ultimately Directing Business Representative of District 15. In 2015, he joined the IAM Executive Council.
Conigliaro was recognized for his dedication to workers and his close relationships with union members. “Jimmy devoted his life to lifting up working families and strengthening our union,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “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.”
As a leader within Local 447 and District 15, Conigliaro helped represent workers in automotive, trucking, and other industries across New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Boston. He also played an important role in organizing Black Car drivers in New York City. This effort contributed to IAM’s expansion into organizing ride-share drivers nationally.
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President, said: “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.”
In honor of his contributions, District 15 named its Lyndhurst office after Conigliaro and installed a bronze marker at its entrance.
Norman Shreve, current Directing Business Representative for District 15, commented: “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.”
The union extended condolences to Conigliaro’s family—including his wife Gissel, three children, nine grandchildren—and friends.
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 again from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The funeral Mass is scheduled for January 30 at St. Francis de Sales R.C. Church in Belle Harbor at 11:00 AM; burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery in Queens.
