Workers at V2X Vertex Aerospace in Fort Worth, Texas, who maintain military aircraft at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport (KAFW), have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Union. The election, conducted by mail-in ballot and concluded on December 30, resulted in a strong majority favoring IAM representation. The group will now be represented by IAM District 776.
The organizing effort began several years ago but gained momentum in June 2025 when employees reached out to the union for assistance. Keith “Chub” McCrory, an IAM Associate Organizer, credited the workers for their persistence throughout the process. “This campaign really belongs to the workers,” said McCrory. “They stuck together through delays, through uncertainty, and they never lost sight of why they wanted a union.”
McCrory noted that although discussions about organizing had occurred over many years at Alliance Field, progress accelerated after an employee initiated contact with IAM. “We met with a handful of them, dropped cards right away, and let them take ownership of the campaign,” he said. “It’s their contract. It’s their future.”
The process faced challenges when the 2025 federal government shutdown delayed the election timeline. Despite this setback, worker support remained strong. “I honestly thought the shutdown might cool things off,” McCrory said. “But they hung in there. That’s what made this win so meaningful.”
Some employees who had previous experience under IAM contracts played a role in building confidence among coworkers and addressing anti-union messages from within the workforce. According to McCrory, while there was no major anti-union campaign from management, some internal opposition tried to raise doubts about unionization.
“In the end, people will see what a contract can do for them,” McCrory stated.
The outcome is seen as significant for IAM’s growth strategy in North Texas—a region known for its concentration of aerospace and defense service contract work—and strengthens its presence around Alliance Field where it already represents other V2X members.
“Planting the flag out there was the goal,” said McCrory. “This is just the beginning, a new beginning in that area.”
McCrory and fellow organizer Joey Barnes led efforts alongside support from IAM District 776 leadership and members over several years. Acknowledging this support, McCrory added: “We wouldn’t be here without District 776’s help,” specifically mentioning Doyle Huddleston, President and Directing Business Representative of District 776.
