Tom O’Heron, a retired Collective Bargaining Director for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has died at age 69. O’Heron began his career with IAM Local 21 in 1978 after training as a machinist and working at the Trane Company in Wisconsin. Over more than four decades, he became known for his commitment to workers’ rights and fairness in the workplace.
O’Heron served as Directing Business Representative for District 66 before joining the IAM International staff, where he held roles as Collective Bargaining Coordinator and later as Collective Bargaining Director until his retirement in 2016. During his tenure, he was instrumental in negotiating contracts that improved wages, benefits, and protections for union members.
“Tom O’Heron was a true trade unionist whose work shaped our union and improved the lives of countless working families,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “He will be remembered for his steady leadership at the bargaining table, his lifelong dedication to fairness, and his unwavering commitment to solidarity.”
Outside of his professional life, O’Heron was active in sports and community activities. He coached youth baseball and girls’ high school basketball teams and supported his granddaughters’ activities. He was also involved with the Knights of Columbus as a Grand Knight.
The IAM expressed condolences to O’Heron’s family, friends, and colleagues, noting that he would be missed for his leadership and generosity.
