Ryan Haehnlein, currently the Assistant Directing Business Representative for IAM Local 701, has been appointed as Special Representative for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Midwest Territory. The appointment, made by IAM International President Brian Bryant, will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Haehnlein has been a member of IAM Local 701 since 2011. He began his union career in the heavy-duty trucking sector at M&K Truck Centers. As a Shop Steward, he achieved several grievance victories and resolved labor disputes for his colleagues. In early 2021, he was named an Organizer and later that year became a Business Representative. By June 2022, he advanced to Assistant Directing Business Representative.
“IAM members across the Midwest will benefit from Ryan’s deep experience, steady leadership, and unwavering dedication to working families,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Ryan has proven time and again that he is a fighter for our members—at the bargaining table, on the shop floor, and in every role he has taken on. We are proud to welcome him to the Midwest Territory staff.”
Haehnlein’s current responsibilities include supporting members in freight, heavy-duty trucking, automotive dealerships, machine shops, equipment operations, manufacturing sectors, and independent groups. He has also contributed to improving Local 701’s communications as editor of its newsletter and by helping develop its website and mobile app.
Beyond his local union duties, Haehnlein serves as a delegate and COPE representative to the Chicago Federation of Labor and holds the position of Secretary-Treasurer for the IAM Illinois State Council. In January 2024, International President Bryant appointed him to the IAM Law Committee.
He also brings experience as a trustee with roles on the Local 701 Training Fund and its 401(k) Defined Contribution Plan. Additionally, he is a Trustee-in-Training for the Local 701 Health, Welfare, and Pension Fund.
