The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM or IAM Union) is a major North American trade union representing over 40,000 members in Canada and 600,000 total across 200 industries, particularly in aerospace, transportation, manufacturing, and security. It focuses on negotiating contracts, improving wages/benefits, and workplace safety. 
Key details about the IAM Union in Canada:
Sectors Represented: Major sectors include aerospace (e.g., Boeing), airlines (e.g., Air Canada), automotive parts, manufacturing, and defense. They are the largest union for airport security screeners in Canada.
History: The union has a long history in Canada, with its first local lodge established in 1890 in Stratford, Ontario.
Function: As a union, it negotiates collective agreements to set wages, working conditions, and benefits. It also handles grievances, arbitrations, and advocates for workers’ rights.
Leadership: As of early 2026, Peter Tsoukalas was appointed as a Special Representative in the Canadian Territory, with the union focusing on organizing efforts across Canada.
Structure: It operates through various local lodges across Canada, including districts representing Ontario and other regions. 
The IAM is known for its strong presence in the manufacturing sector and its advocacy for high-quality jobs within the Canadian economy.

Our Local is one of many that make up IAM District 78. To find out more about our parent group, please follow this link:

IAM District 78

YES – IAM has recently achieved multiple significant victories in Canada, securing major contract ratifications and arbitration wins in 2025 and 2026. Key wins include a new contract at Kal Tire, multiple arbitration victories against Air Canada, and agreements for Howmet Canada and Wasaya Airways workers. 

Recent 2025–2026 IAM Canada Highlights:

• Kal Tire (Local 1120): Ratified a strong new contract in November 2025.
• Air Canada Arbitration: Secured victories regarding wrongful termination, improper, vaccine policy implementation, and improper ODS provisions.
• Howmet Canada: A new collective agreement was reached for members in January 2026.
• Wasaya Airways: Flight attendants ratified a new deal in November 2025.
• Local 1211 (Parker Lord): Secured a four-year contract with 3.5% annual wage increases in January 2026.
• Voyageur Aviation: Workers in North Bay ratified their first collective agreement in July 2025. 

These victories underscore the union’s focus on securing better wages, improved benefits, and protecting worker rights across various sectors, including aerospace, transportation, and manufacturing.