IAM District 751 President Jon Holden has been appointed as a General Vice President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, following a unanimous vote by the IAM Executive Council, effective April 1. In his new role as General Vice President of Training and Apprenticeships, Holden will work to expand the union’s apprenticeship and training programs.
Holden’s appointment comes at a time when workforce development is seen as critical for the future of skilled labor in aerospace and manufacturing industries. His background includes nearly three decades with IAM Local 751F, beginning in 1997 at Boeing’s Everett facility. Over his career, he has served in various leadership roles within the union.
Since being elected District 751 President in March 2014, Holden has represented more than 32,000 workers at Boeing and other employers throughout Puget Sound. He led members through a major strike at Boeing in 2024 that resulted in significant wage increases, stronger job security protections, and increased worker input into production processes.
Holden also serves as president of the Machinists Institute’s Board of Directors. The institute focuses on expanding education and skills training for union members to keep pace with changes across industries.
“Jon Holden is a proven leader who has spent his entire IAM career fighting for working people and delivering real results for our members,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “From the shop floor to leading one of our largest and most influential districts, Jon has always put members first. What he has helped build with the Machinists Institute is a model for the future of our union—one that expands apprenticeship, training and real pathways into good union jobs. Now, we have the opportunity to take that model and replicate it across the IAM, creating more opportunities for working people and ensuring the IAM leads the way in developing the next generation of highly skilled workers.”
“I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve on the IAM Executive Council and to continue fighting for our members,” said Holden. “Expanding apprenticeship programs and investing in cutting-edge training must be at the center of our union’s future. I can’t wait to get to work across our union to grow apprenticeship opportunities and give more working people the skills they need to earn a living and build a future. Together, we’re going to create opportunity, build careers and ensure our members have both the skills and the voice to thrive.”
The appointment signals an ongoing effort by labor unions like IAM to address industry needs by preparing workers through expanded educational opportunities.
