As leader of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees for 14 years, Tom Short has earned respect throughout the entertainment industry as he enriched and expanded his union, helping bring the benefits of IATSE membership to more than 50 percent more women and men. It is now the largest entertainment union in the world with more than 110,000 members and 400 locals.
Short's career in the union movement began when he signed up with Stagehands Local 27 in his hometown of Cleveland, just as his father and grandfather had before him -- and his son after him. Short's union sisters and brothers would elect him – a stagehand for the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra -- president of his local, then General Secretary-Treasurer of IATSE.
In 1994, Tom Short was elected president of IATSE.
When he took office, IATSE held two term agreements. That number is now almost 2,000, opening up vast new employment opportunities for its members.
He brought the United Scenic Artists Local 829 back into IATSE after an 81-year absence. And he created IATSE-PAC to give members a stronger voice in the political arena.
Under his guidance, member benefits grew. IATSE established the Individual Retirement Plan on the West Coast, providing additional retirement savings to almost 35,000 members. In addition, the Motion Picture Pension and Health Plans increased almost four-fold in value to $5.5 billion.
Short became the first leader of IATSE in 32 years to be elected to the AFL-CIO Executive Council. As a member of the Council, he serves on the Legislative/Public Policy and Organizing committees, carving out a vital role in advancing two of the highest priorities of the federation.
The AFL-CIO Executive Council recognizes Tom Short for his enormous contributions over many years to the union he loves and to the entire federation. We wish him a retirement full of the experiences and the enjoyment he deserves.