The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has announced the death of Steve Galloway, retired Midwest Territory General Vice President. Galloway, who was 66, passed away on October 10, 2025.
Galloway served as Midwest Territory General Vice President from 2019 to 2024. During his tenure, he promoted innovation, mental health awareness, and leadership focused on purpose. He is remembered for his efforts to unite and support workers across the Midwest.
“Steve was a leader who always centered the human side of our movement,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He brought compassion, creativity, and courage to everything he touched. From mentoring young activists to redefining what leadership looks like in the labor movement, Steve’s impact on our union is immeasurable. We are stronger because of him, and his legacy will continue to guide us forward. On behalf of the IAM Executive Council, I extend our deepest condolences to his wife, children, and entire family.”
Galloway began his career with IAM in 1986 at Stroh Brewery Company in St. Paul, Minnesota. He joined Local 459 (District 77) and held several positions including Union Steward and District 77 President. In these roles he advocated for fair treatment and representation for workers.
He became District 77 Business Representative in 1998 and Directing Business Representative in 2007. In these capacities he expanded apprenticeship programs and negotiated collective bargaining agreements that strengthened IAM’s role in Minnesota’s industrial sectors.
In subsequent years Galloway joined the IAM Midwest Territory staff as Special Representative before becoming Grand Lodge Representative in 2009. He was appointed Chief of Staff to General Vice President Philip J. Gruber in 2016. Galloway created the H.E.L.P.S. program—Honoring, Engaging, Lifting, Providing and Servicing—which aimed to empower local leaders through volunteerism and community service.
As General Vice President for the Midwest Territory he introduced mandatory mental health awareness training for leadership early in his term. This initiative highlighted the importance of mental wellness within workplaces under IAM’s jurisdiction.
Galloway also contributed significantly during the 2016 IAM Grand Lodge Convention in Chicago by helping organize the event which focused on both honoring history and planning future growth.
“Steve led with integrity, empathy, and a deep sense of purpose,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “He helped redefine what leadership means in our union—listening first, leading by example, and always putting our members at the center of every decision. His work to modernize our structure, support mental-health awareness, and focus on purpose-driven growth will continue to guide us for years to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, and family as we honor his remarkable life and career.”
Galloway is survived by his wife Stephanie and children Bri and Sean.
A memorial service will be announced later; meanwhile the family has requested privacy.
Donations can be made in Galloway’s memory to Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines or through acts of kindness done on his behalf.
