Local 2413 hosted Basic Stewards Training for stewards at Field Aviation, sharpening their skills, gaining new tools, and strengthening their ability to stand up for their members. The training was led by International Representative Derek Ferguson, sharing his expertise and insights with the group.
The Steward’s role is the backbone of our Union, and the energy and commitment in the room proved one thing: dedication like this keeps the IAM strong.
The latest edition of Voices is officially here!
Our 2026 release, published in honour of International Women’s Day, shines a spotlight on the leadership, resilience, and impact of women across our union. Through powerful stories and inspiring journeys, this edition celebrates the voices that continue to strengthen and shape our movement.
Inside, you’ll find compelling features, meaningful milestones, and the remarkable contributions of women who help drive our union forward every day.
60 Years of IAM Membership
For this edition of Union Stories, we sat down with David James Varnes, a longtime IAM member, whose six decades of service reflect a deep commitment to unionism, democracy, and fairness for working people.
1. Which local are you part of, and what is your role?
My name is David James Varnes. I am a member of Local 764 (Air Transportation). I am retired, but I remain active in my local as:
I have also served as a Delegate to 10 International Conventions, beginning with Seattle in 1984.
2. What are your hobbies?
I read widely and often. I love to travel, I’ve visited six continents (only Antarctica left!), and I enjoy gardening.
3. How long have you been an IAM member?
I have been an IAM member in continuous good standing for 60 years, initiated in November 1966. I am proud to be a Gold Card Member.
4. Why do you believe in unions? What does being part of a union mean to you?
Trade unionism helps equalize the playing field between workers and concentrated corporate power. It exists to ensure fair wage compensation and fairness in the workplace.
Younger members entering today’s workforce need to understand that being in a union significantly increases their chances of receiving fairness for their labour.
5. What’s something important about union work that you wish more people understood?
I have learned many important lessons about Local administration. It is a vital aspect of providing service to the membership, and it deserves focused education and attention.
Strong administration strengthens member service — and strong member service strengthens the union.
6. Why is union solidarity important today?
In a world with increasing corporate concentration and growing right-wing sentiments, trade unionism remains a vital force.
It challenges the “might makes right” philosophy.
It offers an alternative.
It is one of the bastions of democracy.
7. Can you share a moment when you felt proud to be in the IAM?
In 1988, I was part of an effort by Canadian IAM members to amend the IAM Constitution so that members in Canada could elect their Territorial Vice-President solely by Canadian members.
Before that change, members voted on a “slate” determined by the American majority. The process to achieve this reform took eight years. I helped initiate the change — and it was a change for the better.
It strengthened democratic representation for Canadian members.
8. What’s one thing you want the world to know about the IAM?
I believe in democracy.
The IAM does its best to embrace democratic principles. There is no better training ground for democracy than the regular meeting of a local.
The IAM educates vigilant citizens.
And democracy needs vigilant citizens — now more than ever.
To read more, visit https://djvaviationstories.wordpress.com/ by David Varnes, where he shares written highlights of the contributions of the Machinists Union to aviation in Canada.
On February 26, the IAM Union officially commenced bargaining with Menzies Aviation at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Menzies Aviation currently provides a range of above- and below-the-wing services for seven airlines operating out of Pearson, including WestJet, its largest customer. The negotiations mark an important step forward for approximately 530 members of IAM Local 2413 who are employed in Menzies’ ground handling operations.
The Bargaining Committee presented a full and comprehensive proposal to the employer, ensuring that each item was clearly explained and fully understood at the table. The committee’s approach reflects the priorities and concerns raised by the membership and demonstrates the Union’s commitment to securing meaningful improvements for these workers.
Both parties are scheduled to meet again in mid-March and have expressed a shared interest in working toward a fair collective agreement in a timely manner.
In addition to ground handling negotiations, the IAM Union has also commenced the bargaining process with Menzies Cargo. The goal is to secure two strong collective bargaining agreements that recognize the vital contributions of Local 2413 members across both operations.
Pictured (left to right): Sophia Bailey (PAX Steward), Phil Honsberger (Chief Steward), Amon Gill (Ramp Steward), Michael Corrado (District 140 GC & Organizer), and Koren Hillier (Bag room Steward).
