Approximately 80 workers at UNIFI, a ground handling and aviation services company at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Air Transport Territory. The vote took place on December 3, following concerns among employees about stagnant wages, lack of benefits, and absence of clear work rules.
UNIFI Fresno employees previously earned $16.50 per hour, which is California’s minimum wage. According to workers, any pay increases were only due to state-mandated minimum wage hikes. After management learned that union authorization cards were circulating among staff, the company announced a wage increase to $18 per hour effective September 1. This move was seen as an attempt to discourage unionization but did not prevent the successful organizing effort.
Employees also cited management’s practice of creating work rules “as they go,” which left them without stability or clear expectations in their roles.
“Congratulations to District 142, Local 1782 and especially our new members at UNIFI Fresno,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Bringing UNIFI Fresno into our union is another powerful step in strengthening worker power across the industry. We’re proud to welcome them into the IAM family.”
“The vote in Fresno sends a clear message, Air Transport workers want the power and protection that only the IAM can deliver,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. “We’re honored to represent these new members and are ready to get to work on their first contract.”
The process faced challenges including a federal government shutdown that delayed the representation election from October 14-15 to December 2-3. High turnover rates typical for vendor companies like UNIFI also posed difficulties for organizers.
Local 1782 President Frances Finau helped connect organizers with Aakash Narayan, a Southwest Airlines Steward in Fresno and Local 1782 member who led organizing efforts on site.
“Being part of this campaign and standing alongside the UNIFI Fresno team has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” said Narayan. “These workers showed incredible courage and unity from day one. Even with delays and challenges, they never lost sight of what they deserved, a real voice, stability, and respect on the job. I’m proud to have helped them join the IAM family, and this victory belongs entirely to their determination.”
District 142 General Chair Boris Kochanoff is working with communications staff on a survey about workplace issues and contract proposals as preparations begin for bargaining their first contract.
