Climate Jobs Institute Speaks on Sustainable Building Materials and Other Issues at IAM: Wood, Pulp, and Paper 2025 Conference

On Thursday, September 18th, the Climate Jobs Institute (CJI) presented at the 2025 IAM Wood, Pulp & Paper Council Conference. The conference, which takes place over five days, brings together labor leaders, workforce development professionals, and industry partners to focus on organizing, educating, and empowering members across the IAM Union. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers convened leaders and members from their Wood, Pulp, and Paper Workers Council for the conference in Niagara Falls, NY.

This year's agenda was a reflection of the crucial issues facing the workers of the wood and paper industry today. The discussions were focused on union building, as well as the broader economic, environmental, and social forces shaping key industries. From the impacts of trade policies to the urgent need for climate justice, IAM members came together to strategize and strengthen their movement.

Zach Cunningham, Assistant Director for Labor Education, presented alongside Emma Rebhorn, Deputy Executive Director of the Climate Jobs National Resource Center. They spoke about CJI’s work on tackling the climate crisis; creating high-quality union jobs; and building a skilled and diverse workforce. Cunningham shared key findings from the joint CJI & IAM report published in September 2024, titled “Reclaiming Our Future: A Climate Jobs Agenda for the IAM.” The discussion took place from Sept. 15 to 19 at the Seneca Niagara Casino and Resort in Niagara Falls, N.Y., and focused on organizing, educating, and empowering the next generation of leaders.