Richard Suarez has been named the new Western Territory Coordinator for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), effective September 1, 2025. The appointment was made by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Suarez brings a long history of union involvement, with experience in both collective bargaining and organizing across private and public sectors. He is fluent in Spanish and English, and has participated in several organizing campaigns, political rallies, and has served as a lecturer at IAM Human Rights Conferences.
“A lifetime of service and leadership has prepared Richard for this important role,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “His experience, education, and compassion for working people will help strengthen our union and grow the IAM Western Territory.”
Suarez started his career with IAM in 1987 as a Reservation Agent for Northwest Airlines and became a member of Local 1932 in Los Angeles. He later moved to Los Angeles International Airport where he was elected Grievance Committee Chairman. His work advocating for airline workers led to further responsibilities within the union.
He was later elected Air Transport District 143 General Chairman before being appointed Educational Representative at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in 2011. In that role, he trained IAM members from across North America. Suarez joined the IAM Western Territory Staff as a Special Representative in 2013, then became International Representative two years later.
