IAM International President Brian Bryant announced on Mar. 12 the appointment of Teressa Peart as a Special Representative in the IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Department, effective April 1. Peart, a longtime union leader and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, will focus on veterans’ claims and disaster relief efforts for IAM members and their families.
The appointment is significant for the union’s ongoing support of its veteran members and those affected by disasters. Peart’s experience is expected to strengthen initiatives that help members navigate complex systems such as veterans’ benefits.
“We’re proud to add Teressa to our Retirees and Membership Assistance team,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Teressa has proven herself to be a fierce advocate for IAM members and veterans, and our union is fortunate to bring her on in this official capacity. Her skillset and story are both unique and unmatched. We are excited to grow our Veterans Services initiatives with the addition of her knowledge and expertise.”
James Little, Director of the IAM Retirees and Membership Assistance Department, said, “Teressa has played a critical role in advancing our IAM veterans support initiatives across the union. In her new position, Teressa will help IAM veterans navigate the complex VA claims process that she is an expert in, develop strategies to grow the program, and coordinate support when natural disasters impact IAM communities.“
Peart began her career with IAM Local 733 (now Local 774) at Beech Aircraft in 1998 as a radio and electrical engineer. She has held several leadership roles within District 70, including shop steward, trustee, secretary-treasurer, and most recently Secretary-Treasurer of District 70 for six years. As Chairman of the IAM Veterans Services Steering Committee (VSSC), she leads advocacy efforts for veterans within the union.
In addition to her work with veterans, Peart co-hosts an annual Flags of Freedom event honoring military service members alongside United Way of the Plains. She also mentors women through the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) program and was elected by membership to serve on the International’s Law Committee in 2025.
Peart’s appointment reflects a continued commitment by IAM leadership to provide comprehensive support for its retirees, active members, and especially those who have served in uniform.
