The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) recently held its largest Women’s Leadership class at the Winpisinger Center. This event marks a milestone for the union, as it was the final Women’s Leadership class led by Julie Frietchen before she transitions to her new position as Director of the Winpisinger Center.
Julie Frietchen commented on the significance of the growing participation: “It’s very exciting news that the numbers are growing every year in these programs.” She noted that there was a waitlist for this year’s class, which included IAM women from both the United States and Canada.
The Women’s Leadership program aims to equip IAM women with leadership skills and support their efforts to build influence in their workplaces and communities. Frietchen has overseen the program for three years and has been involved in mentoring members to promote gender equity within the union and across the labor movement.
During the week-long program, participants attended workshops covering topics such as organizing, collective bargaining, public speaking, communications, union leadership, political advocacy, and women’s history. The event also provided opportunities for networking and reinforced IAM’s commitment to including women in decision-making roles.
As part of a communications exercise, attendees created a post to be shared on IAM Union’s social media platforms, including Facebook and X (Twitter).
