The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers’ (IAM) New Jersey State Council (NJSC) recently held its annual meeting, gathering more than 100 union leaders, political advocates, and members to discuss pro-worker legislation and preparations for the upcoming 2025 gubernatorial election.
The NJSC represents over 20,000 IAM members in New Jersey. The meeting was led by Cristino Vilorio, President of the NJSC and IAM District 15 Area Director. Delegates heard from several key IAM leaders including International President Brian Bryant, Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, and Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett.
“Our union’s strength lies in our ability to organize, mobilize, and legislate,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The work being done here in New Jersey is a model for building power at the state level and fighting for legislation like fair wages for IAM auto technicians.”
IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen provided updates on recent contracts in the airline industry that were described as leading within the sector.
IAM General Vice President Jody Bennett spoke about the importance of supporting the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) PAC to continue legislative efforts nationwide.
David Sullivan opened the second day of the meeting by emphasizing unity among union members. Lorie Wilson, Eastern Territory Chief of Staff, highlighted how the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS) contributes to strengthening the union.
“We can’t let hate in politics divide our nation,” said Sullivan. “We must stay focused on fighting for a stronger labor movement, and that fight starts here in New Jersey.”
Hasan Solomon, IAM National Legislative and Political Director, reminded attendees about the significance of political engagement during elections. He told delegates: “In 2025, your voice can be heard LOUD and CLEAR by getting out the vote for IAM endorsed candidates.”
During the event, TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea presented retired TCU/IAM National Vice President Billy DeCarlo with the Frank Darcy Award for Leadership. This annual award honors exceptional service in advancing legislative advocacy within the union.
Several elected officials and candidates addressed NJSC delegates at the meeting. Speakers included Rep. Bonnie Coleman (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., and Katie Brennan, candidate for New Jersey Congressional District 32.
A notable achievement celebrated at this year’s meeting was passage of the Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act (A4380/S3309). This law ensures fair wages for automotive dealership mechanics throughout New Jersey after gaining unanimous bipartisan support in both legislative chambers—a result attributed to strong lobbying efforts by NJSCM delegates. The IAM represents hundreds of automotive technicians across New Jersey who will benefit from this legislation.
“With a critical election season ahead, the IAM New Jersey State Council is laser-focused on supporting candidates who fight for working families,” said Vilorio. “We are ready to work to make Mikie Sherrill our next governor and elect pro-labor candidates across the state. I want to thank everyone for helping make this year’s state council meeting a success and it was exciting to celebrate the passage of legislation for our members working at automobile dealerships across New Jersey.”
The NJSCM Executive Board includes Cristino Vilorio as president/legislative lead; Michael Buonpastore as secretary-treasurer; Antony Stevens as executive vice president/COPE; Ira Stern as education director/COPE director; Larry Reeves as PA vice president of airline coordination; Rich Howell as trustee; Mark Perez as vice president railroad; Robert Trapanese as vice president north; Elizabeth Groner-Rosario as vice president airlines/COPE; Bobby Stewart as vice president east; Dave Snead as sergeant-at-arms; Marianne DeSantis as trustee/outreach coordinator; C.A. “Obie” O’Brian as trustee; Ross DeConte as trustee; Carmelo Benedicto as auditor; Andre Robinson as auditor/PA airline coordinator; Bill Imbenba as auditor; Will Josey and Hector Perez as COPE committee persons; and Craig Livingston as council attorney.
