The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has announced the death of retired Eastern Territory General Vice President James Conigliaro Sr. He died after a career that spanned more than 40 years in service to union members and working families.
James Conigliaro Sr. was born in Brooklyn, New York, on April 2, 1956. He spent his life connected to his family and community. He is survived by his wife Gissel, their three children, and nine grandchildren. According to the IAM Union, he was known for his warmth and generosity both personally and professionally.
Conigliaro began his career as a maintenance mechanic at United Parcel Service in 1977. Over time, he took on leadership roles within Local 447 before becoming Assistant Directing Business Representative of District 15. This district represents workers in automotive, trucking, and other industries across New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Boston.
In 2003, he was elected Directing Business Representative of District 15. In this role and later as part of the IAM Executive Council from 2015 until his retirement in July 2021, Conigliaro became known for strong advocacy for labor rights.
“Jimmy devoted his life to lifting up working families and strengthening our union,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “His leadership, compassion, and tireless advocacy made a lasting impact on the IAM and the labor movement throughout the Eastern Territory. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President added: “Jimmy was a true trade unionist who led with heart and belief that workers deserve a strong voice. He built a legacy of leadership in District 15 and across the Eastern Territory that will continue to inspire generations of IAM members.”
Conigliaro also played an important role organizing Black Car drivers in New York City. His work helped set the stage for national efforts by IAM to organize ride-share industry drivers.
In recognition of these contributions, District 15 named its Lyndhurst office building after him and placed a bronze marker there.
Norman Shreve, current Directing Business Representative for District 15 said: “Jimmy’s impact on the IAM and District 15 cannot be overstated. He changed lives, built leaders, and set a standard for what it means to serve working people. His loss is deeply felt across our union, but his values and commitment to the working class will continue to guide District 15 and the IAM for generations.”
Funeral arrangements include visitation at Marine Park Funeral Home in Brooklyn on January 28th from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM; January 29th from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM; then again from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM; followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Francis de Sales R.C. Church in Belle Harbor on January 30th at 11:00 AM; burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery in Queens.
The IAM extended condolences to Conigliaro’s family as well as friends and members whose lives were affected by his leadership.
