OPCM Holds Successful 62nd Annual Convention in North Bay
More than 80 IAM delegates from across Ontario gathered in North Bay this weekend for the 62nd Annual Convention of the Ontario Provincial Council of Machinists (OPCM).
United in solidarity and committed to advancing the interests of IAM members, delegates participated in productive discussions, educational workshops, officer elections, and strategic planning sessions aimed at strengthening the union and shaping its future direction.
Day One Highlights
The convention commenced with opening remarks from OPCM President Dean O’Reilly, followed by a Land Acknowledgement delivered by the Host Committee.
Delegates were then addressed by IAM Canadian General Vice President Dave Chartrand, who expressed his appreciation to officers, representatives, and delegates for their dedication and hard work. In his remarks, GVP Chartrand highlighted the union’s organizing successes, noting that 28 new workplaces had been organized since the previous OPCM Convention, with 75 percent of those victories occurring in Ontario.
He reaffirmed the Canadian Office’s commitment to supporting organizing efforts across the country and recognized Local 1231 for maintaining a fully functional organizing committee. GVP Chartrand also acknowledged the valuable contributions of Senior Research Analyst Roya Rismankar, whose expertise continues to support locals and districts in bargaining preparation and research initiatives.
Delegates were also informed of the launch of the IAM Canada Mentorship Program, an initiative designed to educate, develop, and support the next generation of union leaders.
Chief of Staff Ralph Martin provided an update on key projects underway at the Canadian Office. His report included progress on the rebranding and redevelopment of the IAM Canada website, led by the Communications Department team of Vanessa Breidy and Lucie Morillon. Delegates learned that new newsletter templates are now available and that the redesigned website is expected to launch in the coming weeks.
Martin also highlighted the ongoing work of the Guide Dogs of Canada Tender Loving Care program and reported that the Annual Dave Ritchie Golf Tournament raised an impressive $125,000 last year in support of its mission.
Day Two Highlights
The second day began with a presentation from Chris Carpenter of the Workplace Health and Safety Centre, who provided updates on upcoming training initiatives. Delegates were informed that Instructor Training will be held in Hamilton on October 12, 2026.
A comprehensive Political Action Workshop followed, facilitated by Paul Hicks and Derek Ferguson. Their presentation focused on the growing challenges of misinformation, information overload, and the increasing difficulty of distinguishing factual reporting from satire and misleading content.
Delegates also participated in an engaging Organizing Workshop led by District 78 Organizer Rootisha Rampat Sukhu. Her interactive presentation emphasized the importance of organizing as a cornerstone of union growth and strength. Additional insights were provided by Territorial Organizing Leader Scott Jackson and District 78 Business Representative Roy Bhansingh, who reinforced the union’s commitment to expanding membership and building worker power.
The afternoon ended with an informative report from Rick Sansom on the Ontario workplace harassment investigations in Ontario, offering delegates valuable perspectives on the process from a union representative’s standpoint.
Day 2 concluded with a fun and festive boat trip across Lake Nippissing. Delegates were treated to a sumptous dinner and live music.
Day 3 Highlights
The Humanitarian Award was formally presented to Nipissing Transition House by Locals 2412 and 1295 in recognition of its outstanding service and commitment to supporting members of the community.
The convention concluded with the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected OPCM officers, marking the beginning of a new term of leadership.
Congratulations to all those elected, and best wishes for a successful term as they continue to serve and represent IAM members across Ontario.
The 62nd Annual OPCM Convention provided delegates with an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and strengthen the collective voice of IAM members across Ontario. Through education, leadership development, and strategic planning, delegates reaffirmed their commitment to protecting workers’ rights and building a stronger future for the union.
Some special moments caught on camera!
As the convention concluded, delegates returned to their locals equipped with new knowledge, renewed energy, and a shared commitment to advancing the interests of IAM members across Ontario.
Special thanks to the Host Committee Local 1295 and Local 2412 for their hospitality. Thank you to the delegates, officials and all those who participated to make the 62nd Annual OPCM Convention a great success. Looking forward to the next convention!