Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local S6 at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works (BIW) held a gathering to honor Amber Czech, a 20-year-old welder and educator who was killed by a coworker on November 11, 2025, in Cokato, Minnesota.
Czech was recognized for her skill as a welder and for teaching welding at her former high school during her time off. The event organized by Local S6 highlighted the need for measures against workplace violence and stressed the importance of supporting women in skilled trades.
The tribute at BIW was led by IAM Union Local S6 member and BIW welder Megan McCandless. Members assembled in the shipyard to show support and solidarity with women working in trades. General Dynamics Bath Iron Works produced a video featuring comments from McCandless.
“I thought we had a responsibility through the company and the Union to shed light and recognize what happened in honor of Amber,” said McCandless. “We had women from the company and the Union coming together in honor of Amber Czech. It is a woman’s issue, and it is so important to have each other’s back in the workplace.”
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant stated, “Amber was one of us, a young, talented welder who loved her craft and her community. Her life was brutally stolen. This kind of workplace violence is a horror no family or coworker should ever have to endure. The IAM and Local S6 stand united in saying it will never be tolerated. We owe it to Amber, and to every worker, to fight for dignity, safety, and respect on the job.”
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President, commented on representation issues: “Only six percent of women are welders in the U.S. trades workforce, which leaves far too many feeling isolated and vulnerable. Amber should have had a long, successful career. The Eastern Territory is committed to ensuring that no worker ever feels isolated, threatened, or unsafe. Solidarity means stepping up for one another, and we will not fail.”
Chris Williams, IAM Union Local S6 President added: “No one should ever come to work fearing violence or harassment. Our union is a family that shows up for each other. This powerful tribute reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting everyone on the shop floor.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired members across North America in sectors including aerospace; defense; airlines; shipbuilding; railroad; transit; healthcare; automotive; among others.
