Chris Salinas has been appointed as a Special Representative in the Southern Territory of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), with his new role set to begin on January 1, 2026. The appointment was announced by IAM International President Brian Bryant.
Craig Martin, General Vice President for the IAM Southern Territory, commented on Salinas’s selection: “Chris has always shown what it means to truly represent our members. His deep engagement in our union, his commitment to fighting for our members, and his leadership at every level make him a strong addition to the Southern Territory team.”
Salinas began his involvement with IAM as an aircraft composite worker during the successful organizing campaign at the L-3 Vertex worksite located at Corpus Christi Army Depot in 2014. That same year, he joined IAM Local 2916 and was elected Shop Steward.
In subsequent years, Salinas held several positions within Local 2916. He was elected Trustee in 2015 and became Secretary-Treasurer in 2017. He also served as a delegate representing the local at the Coastal Bend Labor Council for matters related to local and state AFL-CIO activities.
By 2019, Salinas had become Chief Steward for the Amentum contract. In 2020, he was elected Vice President of the Coastal Bend Labor Council and advanced to President of that council in 2024.
Since 2023, Salinas has chaired both the Legislative and Organizing Committees for Local 2916. He has also served as Vice President for Region 6 of the IAM Texas State Council.
