Rich Delaney

President & Directing General Chairperson
A New Direction 08

Rich Delaney has worked for United Airlines since May 13, 1974 as a RSM in ORD. He has experienced a furlough, recall, a short strike (1975) and a long strike (1979).

He has served the membership from the time his probation ended in August of 1974. Rich started as a steward and moved steadily forward in his union career. Rich was elected by District 141 membership five times to the position of AGC. Rich chose to vacate that position in order to fulfil his commitment to members to run for the position of District 141 President & Directing General Chair Person.

Rich was raised by parents who believed unions were essential for any working person. It was not enough to join; it is through active participation that unions work.

Rich is seeking your support in the office of President and General Chairman. “I believe I can help bring our members back to the IAM in a positive way. I have seen and heard the frustration of members across our system. They think the union doesn’t listen to them or focus on their concerns.” Rich believes in the importance of communication and is a firm believer that there is never enough communication for our membership. He further said, “We have important, life changing events coming in the very near future on all airlines within District 141 and we are going to need the active support and understanding of all members. The only way I know to do that is to provide accurate, honest information and have faith in our members’ ability to make sound decisions.”

Rich has found that all success comes from a well-represented membership. If members know their issues and concerns are being addressed they are more likely to have faith in the union’s involvement in politics and more accepting of the union’s recommendations for political support in elections. Likewise, a well-represented membership is the best organizing tool a union can have. It encourages participation in organizing drives and is the best advertisement for a union. Rich added, “The members of the New Direction team have all proven their ability to represent their members and I am convinced together we will make a difference in our members’ futures.”