IAM International President Brian Bryant announced on Mar. 12 the appointment of Teressa Peart as a Special Representative in the IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Department, effective April 1. Peart, a longtime union leader and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, will focus on veterans’ claims and disaster relief efforts for IAM members and their families.
Bryant said, “We’re proud to add Teressa to our Retirees and Membership Assistance team. Teressa has proven herself to be a fierce advocate for IAM members and veterans, and our union is fortunate to bring her on in this official capacity. Her skillset and story are both unique and unmatched. We are excited to grow our Veterans Services initiatives with the addition of her knowledge and expertise.”
James Little, Director of the IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Department, said, “Teressa has played a critical role in advancing our IAM veterans support initiatives across the union. In her new position, Teressa will help IAM veterans navigate the complex VA claims process that she is an expert in, develop strategies to grow the program, and coordinate support when natural disasters impact IAM communities.“
Peart began her career with the union in 1998 at Local 733 (now Local 774) at Beech Aircraft as a radio and electrical engineer. She follows a family tradition of union membership within District 70. Over time, she served as shop steward, trustee, secretary-treasurer, and participated in various committees—gaining experience in financial stewardship and organizational leadership.
For six years prior to this appointment, Peart was Secretary-Treasurer of District 70. She also serves as Chairman of the IAM Veterans Services Steering Committee (VSSC), leading advocacy efforts for veterans within the organization. Additionally, she co-hosts an annual Flags of Freedom event with United Way of the Plains honoring military service.
Peart’s commitment extends beyond veterans’ advocacy; she mentors women through the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) program and was elected by members to serve on the International’s Law Committee in 2025.
