The International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) has recognized the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) for its achievements in labor communications during the 2025 Labor Media Contest. The contest is considered a significant event in the field, highlighting outstanding work among union communication professionals.
IAM International President Brian Bryant stated, “The IAM Union Communications Department continues to lead the way. Their dedication and commitment to sharing the stories of our members shines through in every piece they produce. This well-deserved recognition from ILCA solidifies their place as a leading voice in the labor movement.”
The ILCA Labor Media Awards Contest is known as the largest and longest-running competition focused on labor communications. The 2025 winners were chosen for upholding high standards of journalism and serving as examples within the sector.
Among this year’s awards, IAM Communications Representative Elias Flamenco Rivera received third place in writing for Best Feature Story of an Issue with his piece in the Summer 2024 IAM Journal titled “Our Future, Our Fight: Seizing Momentum for IAM/Boeing Contract Negotiations.” Bill Harkum, also an IAM Communications Representative, was awarded third place for Best Organic/Owned Social Media Live Event Coverage for his work on Nevada Get Out The Vote, 2024.
Deirdre Kaniewski, Communications Director at IAM Union District 751, earned first place in Political Action/Social Justice/Campaign for her design work on the “Our Future, Our Fight” graphics package.
IAM Communications Director Jonathan Battaglia commented on these achievements: “We’re not just telling stories, we are amplifying the voices of our members and fighting for the issues that affect their lives. I am extremely proud of our entire department. The communications paradigm is shifting quickly in the labor movement and our team continues to adapt to the challenges and generate award-winning content year after year.”
According to IAM representatives, their communications department has prioritized delivering timely stories relevant to union members’ experiences—from workplace challenges to collective successes—helping keep members informed and engaged.
Reflecting on his tenure with ILCA, DeLane Adams, IAM Union Assistant Communications Director and outgoing ILCA Secretary-Treasurer said: “When I first took on the role of Secretary-Treasurer, the ILCA was in a financially challenging position. It wasn’t easy, but we made some difficult decisions about our team and really tried to think creatively to get us back on track. We worked hard to demonstrate the real value of the ILCA, especially with our biennial convention. I am confident that the ILCA will continue to thrive and inspire the next generation of labor communicators.”
This year’s ceremony also included a tribute by ILCA honoring Lisa Martin—President Emeritus of ILCA and Strategic Communications Director at Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA)—who passed away earlier this year. According to statements provided by organizers, Martin’s leadership since 2018 played a significant role in advancing ILCA’s mission by attracting diverse talent and guiding its direction.
