The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is expanding its organizing efforts by offering a Spanish Organizing I class at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center. Fifteen IAM members from across the United States and Puerto Rico recently participated in this training program, which aims to better equip union organizers to engage with Spanish-speaking workers.
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes and Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen addressed the participants during their visit to the class. They highlighted the importance of preparing members to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking workers and building collective power in workplaces. “This training helps develop stronger organizers, stewards, and leaders who can connect with workers in their own language, remove barriers to participation, and ensure every worker has a real voice on the job,” they said.
As more organizing campaigns involve multilingual workplaces, IAM sees this type of training as essential for successful union elections, negotiating strong contracts, and growing membership. The Spanish Organizing I course provides practical skills and strategies for running effective organizing campaigns. It uses real-life case studies from IAM’s past efforts and focuses on messaging, one-on-one conversations, and planning.
The next session of the Spanish Organizing I class is scheduled for December 13–18, 2026. It is open to all IAM members and staff through assignment by a General Vice President. While fluency in Spanish is not required, a basic understanding of spoken Spanish is considered helpful.
Locals or districts interested in enrolling members or staff are encouraged to contact their General Vice President for assignment. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Winpisinger Center at 301-373-8820 or w3leadership@iamaw.org.
