IAM District 776 in Fort Worth has dedicated its union hall atrium to honor retired International President Robert Martinez Jr., recognizing his 43 years of service to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The tribute features a gallery filled with photographs, mementos, and awards highlighting milestones from Martinez’s career.
Martinez began his IAM journey in 1980 as an aircraft assembler and member of Local 776A after serving in the U.S. Navy. He rose through the ranks to become IAM’s first Latino Executive Council member, eventually leading as the organization’s 14th International President for eight years and serving on the Executive Council for two decades.
“This hall, this district, and this union has meant the world to me and my family,” said Martinez. “This union gave me a purpose when I was 20 years old. It gave me a shot at the American dream, to make a living and support my family. Together, we have improved the lives of countless IAM members.”
During his tenure, Martinez led IAM through significant events such as the COVID-19 pandemic by advocating for relief measures that protected jobs in airline and aerospace sectors. Under his leadership, IAM expanded into new industries like healthcare and became a top performer in National Labor Relations Board union election victories between 2018 and 2022.
He also initiated programs designed to support IAM members, including services for military veterans seeking VA claims assistance at no cost, addiction recovery resources, and efforts to increase opportunities for underrepresented groups within the union. One such initiative is the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (IAM LEADS), which focuses on women’s leadership development.
The dedication ceremony also recognized Paul Black, District 776 President Directing Business Representative, and Earnest Boone, Business Representative—both retiring after 45 years with IAM.
Martinez expressed appreciation for Joe Alviar, an IAM Business Representative, along with his wife Linda who played key roles in creating the atrium displays.
“Again I say thank you. It’s been a great honor,” said Martinez. “Our leadership, headed by our great International President Brian Bryant, has the IAM going in the right direction. I can’t wait to see where we’re going next, and I’m cheering all of you and our union on from retirement.”
