More than 120 helicopter mechanics and supply technicians employed by Amentum at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Union. This marks the first time IAM will represent a group at this military base.
The mail-in ballot election concluded on December 30, with a two-to-one majority supporting union representation. The newly organized workers are responsible for maintenance and supply support for military helicopter operations at the naval installation.
“This was a campaign that required patience, education, and a strong core group of workers,” said IAM Assistant Organizing Coordinator Joe Solis. “The employees stayed engaged and committed, even when delays tested everyone’s resolve.”
The organizing campaign began with outreach through established networks and continued with direct conversations and meetings to inform workers about union benefits. The process faced delays after the petition for representation was filed due to the 2025 federal government shutdown, which postponed the election.
“That delay made things more challenging,” said Solis. “But the workers stayed united and were excited just to finally see the process move forward.”
During the campaign period, Amentum hired around 30 additional employees. Despite these changes and delays from the government shutdown, organizers remained confident in their efforts.
Solis noted that establishing an IAM presence at Naval Station Mayport is significant as it is the first union at this location. “When you’re the first union on a military installation, it’s harder,” he said. “You have to build trust from the ground up and spend a lot of time educating workers about what the union does and how it benefits them.”
Organizers highlighted IAM’s experience representing Service Contract Act (SCA) workers across defense, aerospace, and aviation industries nationwide.
“We explained that IAM Union are the experts in the service contract industry,” said Solis. “We’ve delivered strong contracts for thousands of workers doing this kind of work across the country.”
Preparations are underway for bargaining an initial contract between IAM representatives and Amentum management. Negotiations are expected to begin soon.
“This win shows what’s possible when workers stay engaged and the Organizing Department works closely with the territories and districts,” said Solis. “That partnership is critical, especially during challenges like a government shutdown.”
