Ryan Haehnlein, currently the Assistant Directing Business Representative of IAM Local 701, has been appointed as a Special Representative for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Midwest Territory. The appointment was made by IAM Union International President Brian Bryant and will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Haehnlein has been a member of IAM Local 701 since 2011. He started his union career in the heavy-duty trucking industry at M&K Truck Centers. During his time as a Shop Steward, he secured several grievance victories and resolved labor disputes for his coworkers. In early 2021, he became an Organizer and later that year advanced to Business Representative. By June 2022, he was named Assistant Directing Business Representative for Local 701.
“IAM members across the Midwest will benefit from Ryan’s deep experience, steady leadership, and unwavering dedication to working families,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Ryan has proven time and again that he is a fighter for our members—at the bargaining table, on the shop floor, and in every role he has taken on. We are proud to welcome him to the Midwest Territory staff.”
Haehnlein serves members in various sectors including freight, heavy-duty trucking, automotive dealerships, machine shops, equipment businesses, manufacturing, and independent sectors. He also played a role in strengthening Local 701’s communications program as editor of its newsletter and by helping develop its website and mobile app.
In addition to his work within Local 701, Haehnlein holds broader labor leadership roles such as delegate and COPE representative to the Chicago Federation of Labor and Secretary-Treasurer of the IAM Illinois State Council. In January 2024, International President Bryant appointed him to the IAM Law Committee.
Haehnlein also brings trustee experience from serving on the Local 701 Training Fund board and managing responsibilities related to retirement plans like the 401(k) Defined Contribution Plan. He is also training as a trustee for Local 701’s Health, Welfare, and Pension Fund.
