Forty-two years ago in Indianapolis, Michael Sullivan completed his apprenticeship as a sheet metal worker. Since then he has dedicated himself to the men and women of his union and to all working families.
As general president of the Sheet Metal Workers International Association since 1999, Sullivan has gained a well-deserved reputation as both a progressive firebrand and an organizational problem-solver. He has demanded accountability from politicians of all parties, including those considered allies. By strengthening his union’s pension fund he has ensured that sheet metal workers can retire in dignity. And through it all, he has been a voice for morality and decency—and for a nation that honors the basic values of working men and women.
Throughout his leadership of SMWIA, Sullivan has focused on growth and expanding work and training opportunities for the working men and women he serves, building fruitful relationships with employers and industry groups. And at every step of the way he has been an advocate for all working people, in the public and private sectors and in every profession.
Sullivan has chaired the AFL-CIO Executive Council Committee on Capital Stewardship, as well as the Committee on Older and Retired Workers. In addition, he served on the committees on Civil and Human Rights, Organizing, Politics, Public Affairs and Strategic Approaches.
The AFL-CIO Executive Council thanks Michael Sullivan for his many contributions to this council, to his union, to America’s labor movement and to working families. We wish him all the best in retirement.