Source: US GOIAM Union
This article was featured in the Summer 2025 IAM Journal and was written by IAM Communications Representative Elias Flamenco Rivera.
In today’s fast-paced world, balancing a successful career, union commitments, and family life can be impossible. However, for three dedicated IAM members, this reality is a daily commitment that speaks to their work ethic, union pride, and dedication to their professions and families. These members rise before dawn and work well beyond the typical eight-hour workday, driven by their deep-rooted commitment to
their jobs, families, and the IAM.
“For JAM members, it’s not about managing time – it’s about commitment. The long hours are made bearable by the strength we find in our families, our union, and our shared mission to serve,” said !AM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin.
Many of you reading this story have experienced the drill: early mornings, long shifts, and balancing work and family. It’s the life of an !AM member in the South, and it’s a testament to our dedication. JAM Union Southern Terri tory members Berrin McFadden, Steve Blackwell, and Scott Gardner are three exceptional individuals who are balancing work and family to serve JAM members.
BERRIN MCFADDEN has devoted over three decades of his life to the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), where he has become an integral part of the workplace and the broader com munity. As a seasoned mechanic in the HVAC shop, McFadden spends his mornings ensuring buses are fully operational, providing essential heating and air-conditioning services, and offering quick fixes to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. But it’s not just about the work; it’s about the pride McFadden takes in his craft and the people he serves. Since joining the JAM in 1990, McFadden has taken on various leadership roles within his Local, including eight years as financial secretary and currently serving as conductor sentinel. He values the union’s support for his professional growth and the enhancement of his personal financial skills, which he uses to manage his household budget effectively with his wife.
“Being part of the TAM helped me become a better financial manager. It made me more disciplined with money and allowed me to share those les sons with others,” said McFadden.
McFadden works long hours during the week to keep things running smoothly, then clearly separates work from personal life on the weekends, maintaining a healthy equilibrium.
“I dedicate my weekends to my family and myself,” said McFadden. “I’ve learned that it’s important to shut off work and focus on the things that matter the most at home.”
Beyond work, McFadden is actively engaged in beautification and landscaping projects within his neighborhood, a hobby he has cherished for many years. He believes that a well-maintained lawn reflects the residents’ care and pride.
His lawn care and landscaping expertise have earned him the respect of his neighbors, who frequently seek his advice and guidance on maintaining their yards.
“I’m just doing what I love, and that’s what drives me. I want to leave a legacy showing the importance of community, hard work, and caring for the people around you,” says McFadden.
STEVE BLACKWELL currently works as a Quality Assurance Representative at Amentum Group. With an extensive background in aviation, including roles as Corrosion Control Mechanic Lead and Aircraft Mechanic 2, he has built a career centered on maintaining safety and efficiency in aviation. Though his daily routine can be unpredictable, his commitment to ensuring every task is performed to the highest standard remains constant.
“Every day is different in aviation,” says Blackwell.
The role comes with significant responsibilities, including performing final inspections for maintenance actions involving the safety offlight, investigating safety incidents, and drafting reports like engineering investigation requests and quality deficiency reports. Blackwell is also responsible for monitoring various maintenance programs, training other staff, and compiling reports to support the Program Management Office.
“You need solid technical expertise and a deep understanding of aviation standards,” says Blackwell. “Working alongside qualified and competent mechanics to ensure tasks are completed efficiently is essential.” As a member of IAM Local 2777 for over seven years, Blackwell has seen firsthand how union membership contributes to a positive work environment.
“Being part of the JAM has been beneficial in building camaraderie, especially among those of us who have military backgrounds. We work well together and support each other in achieving our goals,” reflects Blackwell.
In addition to his role as a Chief Steward, Blackwell also serves as the Vice President of his Local.
“I help lead efforts to resolve issues at the site and ensure that our members are supported,” he says, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defines union work. Despite his job’s demanding nature, Blackwell tries to balance work with his personal life. ‘Tm fortunate to have an understanding family, especially my wife, the rock in our household. She supports me as I take on additional responsibilities at work,” he says.
Outside of work, Blackwell is passionate about music. As a local musician, he performs live shows to unwind and support charitable causes.
“My band donates 100% of our tips to organizations like United Service Organizations (USO) and the Children’s Rescue Initiative (CR!), which fights human trafficking,” he explains.
“I also make time to work out whenever possible, and I set clear boundaries for work-no calls after 7:45 p.m. unless it’s an emergency so that I can be pre sent for my family and personal well-being.”
“I see my work at Amentum as contributing to the security of our community. The aircraft we maintain help train pilots who will protect future generations,” says Blackwell. “The work we do directly impacts the future of aviation and defense. It’s rewarding to know that my efforts contribute to the safety of our country and the well-being of the people I work with.”
SCOTT GARDNER begins the day early as a mechanic at Textron Aviation. The first task includes stretching exercises and a crew meeting to set the stage for the day’s work. From there, it’s all about getting hands-on with tasks, assembling aircraft parts, and ensuring every job is completed precisely. As an assembly ins taller, the responsibility is clear: follow Textron Aviation’s blue prints and specifications to maintain quality and safety.
“In my role, I perform assembly work in the final assembly area. We work on a weekly sequence, positioning and preparing aircraft as part of the 40-hour moving schedule,” says Gardner, who has been with Textron for 28 years.
The work is physically demanding but highly specialized, and precision is key.
As a shop steward, Gardner also balances his technical duties with advocating for his coworkers. “A big part of my job involves answering questions, monitoring safety, and addressing any arising issues throughout the day. I’m constantly in discussions with leadership about daily matters and broader issues affecting our team,” explains Gardner.
This role involves significant leadership and communication skills, which come naturally to someone who has been a part of JAM Local 774 for nearly 20 years.
For Gardner, being part of the IAM has provided a sense of voice and security.
“The !AM has been a big help as it has given me a plat form where I can make sure my coworkers’ rights are heard,” said Gardner. “We have benefits that we wouldn’t otherwise have in a right-to-work state.”
The IAM has helped him grow as an advocate, primarily through leadership classes at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center.
“It’s been a great way to bring those lessons back to my family, teaching them the importance of our rights as workers and the advantages of being part of a union,” explains Gardner.
Gardner also has served as [AM Local 774 Communications Representative, a role that required him to ensure timely and effective communication between union leadership and the members.
While his work and union responsibilities can be demanding, he strives to ensure his family life doesn’t take a backseat.
“Although it’s challenging at times, I maintain clear boundaries by carving out time for work, union responsibilities, and family, so [ can stay present at home.”
Family remains his top priority, and his commitment to them is evident in his career choices and personal values.
“My wife and I have always prioritized our family first. Now that the kids are out of the house, it’s easier to balance things. But even when they were younger, made sure they always came first,” shares Gardner.
He and his wife are actively involved in the community, supporting local charities like Flags of Freedom and Wreaths Across America. He also attends the annual United Way of the Plains/AFL-CIO Community Ser vices Conference in the area.
“Our work at Textron is critical to the local community. We manufacture world-class aircraft, and as one of the largest employers in the city, our wages, benefits, and working conditions are vital to the community’s economic health,” says Gardner proudly.
“My work means something. I know that someone’s loved one might be flying on one of these aircraft, which motivates me to ensure that everything I do is up to the highest standard,” continues Gardner.
THE SPIRIT OF IAM: COMMITMENT TO SOLIDARITY, WORK, AND SERVICE
“These workers’ stories are not just about what they do but why they do it – to create a better future for their families, their communities, and the union that stands behind them,” said Mar tin. ‘Through their tireless efforts, they remind us that the true strength of any union is not just in its contracts but in the support we provide one another. Their journeys are a powerful reminder that when we work together with purpose, we all rise.”
VIDEO PLAYLIST
IAM Southern Territory members share their stories of balancing their work, union commitments, and family life with dedication and pride. iam4.me/southemsolidarity
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