More than 120 helicopter mechanics and supply technicians working for Amentum at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Union. This is the first time an IAM-represented group will be present at this military base.
The decision came after a mail-in ballot election held on December 30, where workers favored union representation by a two-to-one margin. The employees involved are responsible for maintenance and supply support for military helicopter operations at the installation.
Joe Solis, IAM Assistant Organizing Coordinator, commented on the process: “This was a campaign that required patience, education, and a strong core group of workers. The employees stayed engaged and committed, even when delays tested everyone’s resolve.”
The organizing campaign began with outreach through established networks followed by direct conversations and meetings to inform workers about union benefits. However, progress was temporarily halted due to the 2025 federal government shutdown soon after the petition for representation was filed.
“That delay made things more challenging,” said Solis. “But the workers stayed united and were excited just to finally see the process move forward.”
During this period, Amentum hired around 30 additional employees. Despite these changes and election delays caused by the shutdown, organizers remained confident in their efforts.
Solis described the significance of establishing an IAM presence at Naval Station Mayport: “When you’re the first union on a military installation, it’s harder. You have to build trust from the ground up and spend a lot of time educating workers about what the union does and how it benefits them.”
Organizers highlighted IAM’s experience representing Service Contract Act (SCA) workers nationwide in defense, aerospace, and aviation industries. Solis noted: “We explained that IAM Union are the experts in the service contract industry. We’ve delivered strong contracts for thousands of workers doing this kind of work across the country.”
Preparations are now being made to start negotiations for a first contract between IAM members at Mayport and Amentum management in upcoming weeks.
“This win shows what’s possible when workers stay engaged and the Organizing Department works closely with the territories and districts,” said Solis. “That partnership is critical, especially during challenges like a government shutdown.”
