Barbara serves as Secretary-Treasurer on the Executive Board of IAM Local 1932 at LAX and brings a strong combination of union experience, business knowledge, financial responsibility, and a genuine commitment to serving IAM members.

Barbara joined Alaska Airlines through the Virgin America merger, bringing with her nearly three decades of professional experience in entertainment business management, where she worked with high-profile individuals and talent in a complex, fast-paced environment. Her background provided her with extensive experience in business administration, financial management, compliance, operations, and working with people from diverse backgrounds. She also spent 20 years supporting her husband’s contracting business, managing corporate compliance, accounts payable and receivable, hiring, and other critical business operations.

When Barbara joined Alaska Airlines, she embraced the opportunity to become part of a unionized workforce and quickly developed a passion for IAM unionism. Understanding the responsibility that comes with representing working people, she stepped forward and became a Shop Steward—a position she has proudly held for nine years. Since then, she has continued to develop her knowledge and leadership skills through hands-on representation, education, and service to the membership.

Barbara has made union education a priority. She has completed Leadership 1, 2, and 3 at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center (W3), along with Secretary-Treasurer financial workshops, Shop Steward training, and additional education through Local and District offices. She is also scheduled to complete Train the Trainer, continuing her commitment to developing the skills needed to educate and empower fellow members.

Her leadership extends beyond her Shop Steward responsibilities. As Secretary-Treasurer, Barbara understands the importance of financial accountability, transparency, and responsible stewardship of union resources. She also serves as an Alaska Uniform Ambassador, supporting the uniform transition team during the Alaska-Hawaiian integration, and remains active in programs including Leadership Immersion, HYPE, and Mileage Plan initiatives.

What sets Barbara apart is her belief that unionism is ultimately about people. She believes members deserve leaders who listen, communicate, educate, and stand beside them when they need representation. Her professional background, nine years as a Shop Steward, financial leadership, and continued union education have prepared her to take that commitment to the next level.

Barbara Gafford-Tron is ready to bring her experience, integrity, financial knowledge, and member-first approach to the District 142 leadership team as part of the Forward Together slate. She believes in building a stronger union by empowering Locals, developing our Stewards, educating our members, and ensuring that every IAM member has a voice and knows they have someone in their corner.

Join Barbara Gafford-Tron and the Forward Together slate. Stand with your coworkers. Stand for accountable leadership. Stand for stronger representation and a stronger District 142.

This is what change looks like.