MEMBER SPOTLIGHT - Guy Johnson

District 142’s Member Spotlight this week is Guy Johnson!

Guy works as a Customer Service Agent for Southwest Airlines in San Jose, CA. He has been an IAM member for 8 years, worked as an Educator for District 142, and currently serves as a Shop Steward and a Trustee for Local 1782.

When asked what first inspired him to get involved with the union, Guy replied, “I’ve always been one to speak up against injustice. I simply got sick and tired of Station Management walking all over us and blatantly violating our Collective Bargaining Agreement.”

“I always tell new members we are part of something bigger than our local or the Station we work at,” said Guy.  “Being part of the IAM extends far beyond our District. Being a part of District 142 means we fight for injustice and stand up for human rights. A win for the IAM is a win for workers everywhere.”

When asked what he loves about his job, Guy told us that he hopes to inspire new and young workers to step up to leadership, “because they are the lifeline to a strong and vibrant future for the IAM.”

Guy likes to tell those new members to “Read your CBA, ask questions, speak out against injustice, attend and participate in your Local meetings via Zoom or in person, and join a committee.”

His passion for human rights was evident when asked about a particular moment that he was most proud to be an IAM member.

“Knowing that IAM Local 695 (IAM District 160) member Maximo ‘Kuya Max’ Londonio was released from ICE detention after being wrongfully detained, and that his release was a  result of a hard-fought effort by IAM members!”

Away from the job, Guy is passionate about the San Francisco 49ers, working out, and is a talented singer who auditioned for and was selected to be one of 70 singers on the singing Christmas Tree in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!

With Christmas around the corner, you might just spot Guy dressed in his Santa suit, much to the delight of the many children (and adults) he sees every day at work.

District 142 is proud of members like Guy, who demonstrate every day their dedication to their job and union.