IAM NASSCO Workers Rally for Fair Contract, Build Momentum Ahead of Negotiations
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 20, 2026 – IAM Union members at General Dynamics NASSCO rallied Wednesday alongside labor, elected, and community allies to demonstrate their growing unity and strength as more than 800 shipbuilders prepare for upcoming contract negotiations with the San Diego shipbuilder.
The solidarity rally was hosted by IAM Local 389 and IAM District 947, bringing NASSCO workers together with IAM leaders, the San Diego & Imperial Counties Labor Council, elected officials and community supporters to call for a strong contract that recognizes workers’ contributions with fair wages, strong benefits, safe working conditions and respect on the job.
The rally follows a successful seven-month internal organizing campaign that has increased IAM membership within the NASSCO bargaining unit from approximately 21% to more than 67%. More than 560 workers have joined the IAM during the campaign, significantly strengthening workers’ collective voice heading into negotiations.
“This turnout sends a powerful message: NASSCO workers are united, organized and ready to stand together for the contract they deserve,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “These highly skilled shipbuilders perform critical work for our Navy and our national security. The hardworking people who build and maintain these ships deserve wages, benefits and working conditions that reflect the value of their skills and the importance of the work they perform every day.”
Watch video of the rally here.
“For months, our members have been talking with their coworkers one-on-one about what we can accomplish when we stand together,” said IAM District 947 Business Representative William “Billy” Corona. “Growing from roughly 21% membership to more than 67% didn’t happen by accident. Workers decided to join together because they understand that the more united we are, the stronger our voice is at the bargaining table. Today’s rally is another step in showing NASSCO that we are ready to fight for a fair contract.”
The rally included U.S. Rep. Mike Levin (D-Calif.), IAM Western Territory leadership, and other labor and community allies.
“We take a lot of pride in the ships we build and the work we do for our country,” said Adrian Contreras, an IAM member at NASSCO. “We show up every day, work hard, and use our skills to build ships that are essential to our national security. We are standing together because we want a contract that respects that work and gives us the wages, benefits, safety, and future our families deserve.”
“Our strength at the bargaining table comes directly from the workers on the shop floor,” said IAM Western Territory Special Representative Luis Silvas. “Every worker who joins, gets involved and stands with their coworkers makes us stronger. We are going into these negotiations together, and our goal is to come out with a contract that moves NASSCO workers and their families forward.”
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