The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has announced the passing of Frank Carelli, former Director of Government Employees, who died on February 6, 2026, at the age of 72 after a battle with lymphoma.
Carelli joined the IAM in 1977 and spent more than four decades advocating for workers’ rights. He began his union career as a Business Representative with IAM District 137 in Syracuse, New York, which later became part of District 157. Over time, he held several key leadership positions within the organization before retiring in 2015.
During his tenure as IAM Director of Government Employees from 2001 to 2015, Carelli played a significant role in expanding the union’s influence among federal employees. He was involved in bringing the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) into affiliation with IAM and was an important figure in efforts to defeat the National Security Personnel System. This work helped maintain core civil service protections for federal workers nationwide.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant said, “Frank Carelli represented the very best of our union. He dedicated his life to defending working people and strengthening our labor movement. His leadership, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the power of solidarity helped shape the IAM Union we know today. On behalf of our entire union, we extend our deepest condolences to Frank’s wife, Missy, his children, grandchildren, and all who loved him. His legacy will live on in the rights he helped protect and the lives he helped improve.”
Randy Erwin, NFFE-IAM National President added: “Frank Carelli was an excellent unionist, a valuable mentor, and an incredibly loveable person. Without Frank’s leadership and dedication, NFFE would not be where we are today. He deserves tremendous credit for the growth and success that our union has achieved since affiliating with the IAM. He worked tirelessly on behalf of federal workers, and I am proud to have stood alongside him for so many years. He will be deeply missed by NFFE and the entire labor movement.”
Carelli was recognized throughout his career for his advocacy on Capitol Hill as well as his commitment to worker protections and public service values.
He is survived by his wife Melissa “Missy,” children, grandchildren, extended family members as well as friends across both unions and broader labor circles.
