Approximately 80 UNIFI employees at Fresno Yosemite International Airport have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Air Transport Territory. The vote, held on December 3, followed a campaign driven by concerns over stagnant wages, lack of an established pay scale, and absence of work rules or benefits.
UNIFI Fresno workers are responsible for ground handling and aviation services. Before organizing efforts began, these employees earned $16.50 per hour, which matched California’s minimum wage. Workers stated that their only pay increases were tied to state-mandated minimum wage hikes. After learning about the unionization effort, UNIFI management announced a wage increase to $18 per hour effective September 1. However, this move did not prevent employees from voting in favor of union representation.
Employees also cited management’s practice of creating work rules “as they go,” which left them without stability or clear expectations.
“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 election process faced delays due to a federal government shutdown that postponed the original October dates until December 2-3. High turnover among vendor company staff added further challenges during organizing efforts.
A key part of the campaign was support from Local 1782 President Frances Finau and Aakash Narayan, a Southwest Airlines Steward who led organizing activities 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 to survey new members about workplace issues as preparations begin for contract negotiations.
