Tom O’Heron, a retired Collective Bargaining Director of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has died at the age of 69. O’Heron began his involvement with IAM Local 21 in 1978, launching a career that spanned over four decades.
O’Heron started as a machinist at the Trane Company in Wisconsin before moving into union leadership roles. He represented coworkers as Directing Business Representative for District 66, later joining the IAM International where he served as Collective Bargaining Coordinator and then Director until his retirement in 2016.
As director, O’Heron was instrumental in negotiating contracts for IAM members, focusing on wages, benefits, and workplace protections. His efforts contributed to strengthening the union’s position and securing improved conditions for its members.
“Tom O’Heron was a true trade unionist whose work shaped our union and improved the lives of countless working families,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He will be remembered for his steady leadership at the bargaining table, his lifelong dedication to fairness, and his unwavering commitment to solidarity.”
Outside of his professional life, O’Heron was active in sports and community activities. He coached youth baseball and high school basketball teams and participated in local organizations such as the Knights of Columbus.
The IAM expressed condolences to O’Heron’s family, friends, and colleagues, noting that his contributions would have a lasting impact on those who worked with him.
