Workers at V2X Vertex Aerospace in Fort Worth, Texas, who maintain military aircraft at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport (KAFW), have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The mail-in ballot election concluded on December 30, with employees choosing IAM representation. The new members will be part of IAM District 776.
The organizing effort began several years ago but gained momentum in June 2025 after workers contacted the union for assistance. “This campaign really belongs to the workers,” said IAM Associate Organizer Keith “Chub” McCrory. “They stuck together through delays, through uncertainty, and they never lost sight of why they wanted a union.”
McCrory noted that initial organizing conversations had occurred over many years, but progress accelerated once an employee reached out directly. “We met with a handful of them, dropped cards right away, and let them take ownership of the campaign,” McCrory said. “It’s their contract. It’s their future.”
A federal government shutdown in 2025 delayed the election process, presenting a challenge for organizers and employees alike. Despite concerns about losing momentum during this period, McCrory said workers remained committed: “I honestly thought the shutdown might cool things off. But they hung in there. That’s what made this win so meaningful.”
Some employees previously experienced IAM representation at other worksites and played a role in encouraging their colleagues and addressing skepticism about unionization efforts. According to McCrory, while V2X did not mount a major anti-union campaign, some internal opposition attempted to raise doubts among workers.
“In the end, people will see what a contract can do for them,” said McCrory.
IAM sees this development as important for its broader strategy in North Texas. The area around Alliance Field is home to significant aerospace and defense service contract work, sectors where IAM already represents other V2X employees nationwide as part of its position as the largest aerospace and defense union in the United States.
“Planting the flag out there was the goal,” McCrory said. “This is just the beginning, a new beginning in that area.”
The campaign was led by McCrory and Organizing Department Associate Organizer Joey Barnes with support from IAM District 776 leadership and members over several years.
“We wouldn’t be here without District 776’s help,” McCrory added, recognizing strong backing from District President and Directing Business Representative Doyle Huddleston.
