IAM International President Brian Bryant, with Executive Council approval, has appointed two new members of the IAM Law Committee – District 78 Directing Business Representative Eric Johnston and Local 701 Assistant Directing Business Representative Ryan Haehnlein.
The IAM Law Committee is responsible for collecting, reviewing and proposing constitutional changes submitted to the 41st IAM Grand Lodge Convention, which will take place Sept. 1-6, 2024 in New York.
“The IAM Law Committee serves a vital purpose at the Grand Lodge Convention, helping to ensure our membership’s voice is heard in constitutional changes,” said Bryant. “As we continue to move our union forward, we’re excited to welcome Eric and Ryan to these critical roles as they join a great team on the Law Committee.”
Eric Johnston’s journey in the IAM began in May 2011 when he took a job at Anago Resources, a youth custody facility in London, Ontario. It was during this time that Eric became aware of the significance of union representation, as he witnessed first-hand the impact it had in resolving important workplace issues. Driven by a desire to be part of positive change, Eric became a Steward, then quickly assumed the role of Chief Steward.
As Chief Steward, Eric became involved in negotiations committees and advocating for the rights and welfare of co-workers. His involvement in important campaigns, such as the Ontario Federation of Labour’s “Fight for 15” and the battle against Bill 148, which led to progressive reforms in the Employment Standards Act, deepened his commitment to advancing the cause of labour rights.
Eric enrolled in IAM District 78’s Mentoring Program. Here, he embarked on organising efforts focusing on the healthcare, hospitality, and automotive sectors in the London area. At the same time, Eric attended the W3 centre for the first time, where he developed a true sense that the IAM was an organisation he wanted to be part of.
In April 2018, Eric seized the opportunity to participate once again in the organising program, further solidifying his dedication to empowering workers and amplifying their voices. His efforts and commitment caught the attention of the District 78 leadership, leading to his appointment as a Business Representative at District 78 on January 1, 2019.
Continuing to ascend the ranks of leadership within the IAM, Eric’s dedication and continuing success earned him another appointment on January 1, 2023, this time as the Directing Business Representative, following the tenure of DBR Kim Valliere. As DBR, Eric continues to champion the rights and interests of IAM members and workers, embodying the principles of solidarity, advocacy, and empowerment.
