Walter Gerlach has dedicated 45 years to the IAM Union, leaving a mark on both the union and his community. His journey began in September 1980 when he was initiated into Automotive Local 1857. That same year, he started his career as an apprentice at an IAM-certified General Motors dealership in Vancouver, British Columbia. Through years of dedication and skill, Walter earned Red-Seal Certification as an Automotive Service Technician, proof to his professional excellence.
Walter’s commitment to workers’ rights and union leadership has been strong. He first stepped into leadership as an IAM Shop Steward and Bargaining Committee Member in 1995, quickly followed by his election as Recording Secretary of Automotive Local 1857 in 1996. In 1997, he joined the Northwest District 250 Executive Board, and by 2002, he was elected Business Representative and Organizer. His leadership continued to grow, culminating in his appointment as Directing Business Representative for Northwest District 250 in 2013.
In addition to his district roles, Walter represented Canadian members on the IAM Committee on Law from 2014 to 2020 and has served on the IAM Committee on the Future. He has also been an active member of the BC Federation of Labour Executive Council, representing IAM locals from 2013 through 2025, and chairs the Poly Party Council of Unions at Vancouver Shipyards. For nearly two decades, he has shared his knowledge as a labour educator at the Harrison Winter School through the Canadian Labour Congress, shaping the next generation of union leaders.
Walter’s has long been a passionate advocate for his community, serving as Member at Large Labour on the BC NDP Provincial Executive Board and chairing the Affiliated Unions to the BC NDP Caucus. In 2021, he was appointed to the BC Shipbuilding Innovation Advisory Council, reflecting his deep commitment to advancing the industry. He also co-founded the Northwest District 250 Annual Guide Dogs of America Charity Golf Tournament and has played key roles with the United Way of the Lower Mainland, serving on its board, co-chairing the Labour Campaign Cabinet, and co-leading the Waterfront United Workplace Initiative.
Walter Gerlach’s decades-long commitment reflects a rare combination of professional excellence, union leadership, and community service. His work has strengthened the IAM, advanced labour rights, and left a lasting impact on countless individuals and organizations throughout British Columbia.
Thank you, Walter & happy retirement!
