The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced on Apr. 2 that its union members are playing a key role in NASA’s Artemis II mission, which is sending four astronauts around the Moon for the first time in over five decades.
The involvement of IAM members is significant because they have contributed to many parts of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and related support systems needed for this lunar fly-by mission. Their work supports both current space exploration goals and continues a legacy that dates back to previous U.S. space programs.
According to IAM, the SLS rocket uses hardware developed during both the Apollo and Space Shuttle eras, including RS-25D engines built by IAM Local 971 members in Florida. Members from various locals—including Local 610 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Local 971 in Jupiter, Florida, and Local 44 in Decatur, Alabama—have been involved with manufacturing engines like L3 Harris’ RL10 and processing different stages of the SLS. These efforts include transporting equipment from Decatur to Port Canaveral by barge and assembling components at facilities such as NASA’s Vehicle Assembly Building.
IAM Local 2061 members also support operations under several contracts at Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Their responsibilities range from maintaining ground support equipment—such as emergency egress systems—to managing electrical systems, fire suppression, water sound suppression for launches, hazardous materials handling under KPLSS II Contract, life support services for astronauts, as well as laboratory testing under LASSO II contract.
Other IAM-represented workers assist with medical services through NEMCON Contract or provide maintenance for launch ranges used by United States Space Force under SFRC contract duties. Collectively these contributions enable safe preparation and execution of Artemis missions while supporting broader spaceport activities.
As Artemis II continues its journey around the Moon using technology supported by skilled labor from multiple IAM locals across different states and contracts, their ongoing work highlights organized labor’s continuing presence in American aerospace projects.
