Rise and shine! It’s 6:30 AM, and the sun’s barely up, but not a union woman — she’s already awake, ready to start the day with determination, strength, and a mug of strong coffee (because how else can anyone face the world?).

She’s got a full day ahead: whether she’s working hard in a long-term care home, hospital, on a construction site, an airport, a hotel or managing an office, a union woman knows her worth and what it takes to get the job done right.

First stop: the morning meeting. She’s not just there to punch in and punch out. She’s there to make a difference. She’s the one pushing for better working conditions, equitable pay, and the rights that all workers deserve.

Between advocating for mental health initiatives, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and pushing for equal representation at the table, she’s constantly working to build a better, more inclusive future for everyone — one contract, one vote, one conversation at a time.

But it’s not just about the big wins. It’s about the small victories, too. The solidarity she shares with her coworkers as they organize, the solidarity she builds with other women fighting the same battles across the country. She’s part of something bigger than herself, and that’s something truly empowering.

By mid-morning, she’s already solved a few problems and made a few allies (because solidarity isn’t just a word, it’s her middle name). She’s the first to speak up when she sees injustice and the first to jump into action when workers need support. She’s the one pushing for a safer workplace, better benefits, and fighting for women to have equal representation in leadership positions.

By lunchtime, she’s making connections, getting inspired, and brainstorming creative ways to demand change. Her energy is contagious, and her fellow union sisters are all-in with her.

And then, of course, there’s the hustle. Whether she’s negotiating contracts or rallying for fairer treatment of women in leadership roles, she’s always juggling multiple priorities. But that’s the power of being a union woman: the ability to tackle obstacles with both grace and strength, all while inspiring others to join the cause.

As the workday wraps up, she’s still going strong. Whether she’s attending an evening training session on collective bargaining or hitting the gym for a quick workout (because let’s face it, a union woman knows how to multitask), she knows how to balance the hustle with the self-care. She is aware that she is not just building a better future for today, but for every worker who will come after her.

And when the day ends, she reflects on her journey. She’s not just a union woman; she’s a force. Her actions today are changing tomorrow, and her legacy will inspire future generations of women to keep breaking barriers.

So here’s to the union women of Canada: the fighters, the dreamers, the warriors. You’re making history with every contract you sign, every meeting you attend, and every policy you challenge. You’re not just part of a union — you’re part of a movement.

International Women’s Day is just one day, but for a union woman, every day is a reminder of the power we have when we stand together.

Keep fighting, keep shining, and keep inspiring!

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It’s been a busy start to the year for the IAM Union, with our General Vice-President of Canada (GVP) David Chartrand hitting the ground running.

From meeting with Executive members in Local 2323, Local 2413, Local 1295, and Local 235, along with the Chief of Staff Ralph Martin and Confidential Secretary Magaly Fadel, to planning even more visits to engage with members of all locals across Canada, this year is all about connection, collaboration, and driving our shared vision forward.

Since his first nomination, GVP David Chartrand has been committed to meeting and listening to every local, understanding their unique needs, and ensuring we are all working toward a stronger future. Unfortunately, the pandemic slowed these efforts, but now nothing can stand in our way.

We are here to stand strong for workers, especially in these challenging times that are affecting workers everywhere. That’s why we’re not only connecting with locals but also engaging with the Prime Minister at key events like the Canada-US Economic Summit and traveling to Washington for critical discussions with the Premiers. Our commitment to driving positive change remains firm, and we will keep pushing forward on all fronts.

The IAM Union is more energized than ever, and with more local visits and initiatives on the horizon, we are shaping a brighter future for all our members.

Together, we will keep pushing boundaries and setting the vision for success to give workers what they deserve.

On Thursday, February 13th, 2025, a handout of solidarity posters and pins took place at the MTU facility to congratulate the members on their strong strike vote mandate from the day prior and celebrate their unity. Members of the bargaining committee, Local 764, District 140 of the IAM, and representation from the IAM International were present and were warmly welcomed by a supportive membership.

Brother Dave Flowers, President and Directing General Chairperson (PDGC) for District 140, and Tania Canniff, General Chairperson for District 140, were there to show their support. The event also included Christy Slauenwhite, Recording Secretary for Local 764, David Marshall, Secretary-Treasurer for Local 764, and Chris Cheung, Health and Safety Coordinator for District 140 and President of Local 764. Steve Prinz, IAM Canadian Representative from the International, also joined to show solidarity.

The overwhelming mandate shows management that the skilled membership at MTU stands united in their pursuit to get the fair contract they deserve and are prepared to do whatever it takes to achieve it.