IAM Women’s Leadership Program Prepares Members to Lead at Every Level

The Women's Leadership Program was recently held at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology (W3) Center. The Leadership Program continues to empower IAM union sisters across the country, building the skills and confidence needed to take on active roles within their locals and districts.

WATCH: Highlights of participants in the Women's Leadership Program

The program focuses on core leadership skills, including organizing, negotiations, parliamentary procedure, political and legislative involvement, strategic planning, and network building, giving IAM members practical tools to strengthen solidarity and advance the mission to preserve and grow the IAM based on solidarity and justice, and to strive for a higher standard of living for people who work.

Participants also receive information about the Leadership Excellence Assembly of Dedicated Sisters (LEADS) Program, an initiative to develop new pathways to leadership roles for IAM women. The IAM LEADS Program ensures that our organization is relevant now and into the future.

The session marked the first Women's Leadership Program under Colbert's direction since IAM International President Brian Bryant appointed her as the Women's and Young Workers Director on Jan. 1, 2026.

"This class reminded us that leadership isn't just about titles, it's about lifting your voice, lifting others, and creating change together," said Dee Colbert, IAM Women's and Young Workers Director. "The Women's Leadership Program reflects the IAM's ongoing commitment to developing the next generation of union leaders and ensuring that women's voices are heard and valued throughout the labor movement."

This year's Women's Leadership Program was held during Women's History Month. Every year, March is designated Women's History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women's contributions to American history and has been observed annually in March in the United States since 1987.