Approximately 80 workers from UNIFI at Fresno Yosemite International Airport have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Air Transport Territory. The vote, held on December 3, followed a period during which employees cited concerns over stagnant wages, lack of structured pay scales, and absence of clear work rules or benefits.
Before the organizing campaign, UNIFI employees were earning California’s minimum wage of $16.50 per hour. Pay increases had only come in response to state-mandated minimum wage hikes. When management learned about the union drive, they announced a raise to $18 per hour on August 29, effective September 1. Workers viewed this as an attempt to discourage unionization, but the effort did not stop the campaign.
Employees also reported that management would create work rules “as they go,” resulting in instability and unclear expectations for staff. These issues contributed to their desire for union representation.
“Congratulations to District 142, Local 1782 and especially our new members at UNIFI Fresno,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Bringing UNIFI Fresno into our union is another powerful step in strengthening worker power across the industry. We’re proud to welcome them into the IAM family.”
“The vote in Fresno sends a clear message, Air Transport workers want the power and protection that only the IAM can deliver,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. “We’re honored to represent these new members and are ready to get to work on their first contract.”
The election process faced delays due to a federal government shutdown that postponed voting from October 14-15 to December 2-3. High turnover among vendor company employees added further challenges for organizers.
A key figure in the organizing effort was Aakash Narayan, a Fresno Southwest Airlines Steward and Local 1782 member, who led efforts on-site after being connected by Local 1782 President Frances Finau. Narayan said: “Being part of this campaign and standing alongside the UNIFI Fresno team has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. These workers showed incredible courage and unity from day one. Even with delays and challenges, they never lost sight of what they deserved, a real voice, stability, and respect on the job. I’m proud to have helped them join the IAM family, and this victory belongs entirely to their determination.”
District 142 General Chair Boris Kochanoff is now working with members through a comprehensive survey aimed at identifying workplace issues and priorities ahead of contract negotiations.
