Matthew Loeb Re-elected as IATSE President for Fourth Term: A New Chapter for the Union
Matthew Loeb has been at the helm of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), representing over 150,000 members, for an impressive 17 years, and he’s set to continue leading the charge. Loeb was re-elected unopposed as president for a fourth full term during the quadrennial convention held in Honolulu, where he expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am honored and humbled to continue the work we do together. Let’s seize this momentum, lock arms, and get ready for the fights of the future.”
Alongside Loeb, General Secretary-Treasurer James B. Wood was also re-elected, along with 13 International Vice Presidents, demonstrating a strong commitment to leadership continuity. Loeb, who has been steering the union since 2008, has a rich background as a shop person, contributing to iconic projects such as "Malcolm X" and "Jacob’s Ladder."
The 70th Quadrennial Convention saw delegates reaffirming their trust in the leadership with an emphatic vote. A robust, pro-worker agenda was adopted, focusing on strengthening U.S.-Canada solidarity and addressing challenges posed by artificial intelligence.
As Loeb embarks on his next term, he will have led IATSE for over two decades, as there are no term limits for the union’s presidency. IATSE plays a crucial role in representing behind-the-scenes workers in various sectors, including live theatre, film, television production, trade shows, and concerts. Its members are integral to staging, lighting, sound, and media production, as well as venues utilized for political events.
Looking ahead, the re-elected leadership faces significant challenges, particularly as major Hollywood unions advocate for increased domestic production. IATSE has been at the forefront of efforts to bring production back to North America, recently securing additional funding support in California. However, the union leaders are also pushing for a federal incentive to further bolster local production, even as engagement from the Trump administration on this issue has been minimal.
During the convention, delegates unanimously passed a resolution advocating for federal incentives and other important issues. These include protections against artificial intelligence, support for Canadian members amid U.S.-Canada trade disputes, opposition to discrimination, backing for the PRO Act, and advocating for the unionization of production accountants.
As IATSE prepares for the future, the commitment to solidarity and advocacy remains strong, ensuring that the voices of its members are heard loud and clear.
