International President Brian Bryant announced the appointment of Heather Hildebrand, formerly a District 60 Business Representative, to the position of Special Representative in the IAM Automotive Department. The appointment was effective Jan. 13, 2025.
“Heather’s journey from the shop floor to leadership exemplifies the power of dedication and relentless advocacy,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her passion for serving our members, standing strong on strike lines, and negotiating fair contracts reflects the heart of being a trade unionist. We are proud to see her bring this same drive to the Automotive Department in her new role as Special Representative.”
Hildebrand’s IAM career began in 2016 as a small machine operator at H.B. Fuller in Michigan Center, Mich., when she joined IAM Local 435. In the fall of 2016, she put her name in the running for the position of bargaining committee and was elected. In 2018, she sat at the negotiating table for the first time, and in 2024, she was able to negotiate her home contract as the lead negotiator.
In 2018, she also began to get more involved in the Local and became an auditor. In 2020, Hildebrand ran for Local president and was victorious. As president of IAM Local 435, she came into office with an active strike at Albion Industries. She delivered strike checks and walked the picket line with IAM members.
“Heather’s rise from the shop floor to union leadership embodies the power of passion, perseverance, and advocacy,” said IAM Automotive Director Craig Hughes. “Her dedication will strengthen the IAM Automotive Department as we continue the fight for workers’ rights and fair contracts.”
In 2021, Hildebrand ran for District 60 business representative and was overwhelmingly elected. As a new Business Representative, she bounced between the strike line and contract negotiations on the same day within the first three months. Hildebrand also became a vice president for the Michigan Machinists Council and became politically active, meeting with members of Congress and senators.
