Approximately 56 employees at Milwaukee’s Discovery World science museum have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union). The decision follows an organizing campaign focused on improving pay, career advancement opportunities, and increasing employee input in workplace decisions.
Adante Balke, IAM Midwest Territory Special Representative, commented on the result: “Congratulations to the Discovery World workers on making their voices heard and officially winning their union election. These dedicated employees are coming together to demand respect, fair wages, better benefits, and greater transparency in promotions and hiring. By standing united, they are now preparing to bargain collectively for a stronger future.”
The group will now begin negotiating its first contract with Discovery World management. The goal is to secure higher wages and improved benefits while also creating clearer pathways for career growth and ensuring protections against retaliation when raising workplace concerns.
During the union drive, some workers reported that management engaged in tactics aimed at discouraging unionization efforts and cited the termination of a vocal union supporter as an example of such actions.
Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, thanked local officials who supported the organizing effort: “The IAM Union is proud to welcome these workers into the IAM family. We would like to give special thanks to Milwaukee Common Council Members Alderman Alex Brower, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderperson JoCasta Zamarripa, and Alderman Robert J. Bauman for standing in solidarity with Discovery World workers and supporting their right to organize. We stand ready to support them as they move toward a strong first contract that reflects their value, protects their rights, and ensures Discovery World remains a place where workers and the community can thrive together.”
The IAM Union represents about 600,000 active and retired members across various industries in North America.
