(ACROSS NEW YORK STATE) - A diverse group of more than 100 Professional and Non-Professional Employees at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Water Science Center for New York have voted overwhelmingly to join the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE)-International Association of Machinists (IAM), marking another major organizing victory for Federal Workers seeking a stronger voice on the job.

The newly-organized Bargaining Unit includes Hydrologic Technicians, Geologists, Physical Scientists, Hydrologists, Biologists and other Science Professionals who perform critical work monitoring and protecting New York’s water resources.

The Workers voted 88% in favor of Union Representation following a grassroots organizing campaign that united employees across multiple locations throughout the State.

Biologist Rebecca Gorney, who served as an Organizing Committee Leader, played a pivotal role in the successful campaign, helping build support among Co-Workers and coordinated efforts to secure signed Membership forms and encourage participation throughout the election process: “I come from a proud Union Family and I experienced firsthand the value of Union Representation in my previous State Government job. When dramatic changes began affecting Federal Workers in 2025, conversations among my Co-Workers quickly turned toward organizing. As we watched staffing levels decline through firings and buyouts, many of us realized the importance of having a ‘collective’ voice. Through all the uncertainty, Employees came to see that a Union provides stability, protection and a voice in the workplace. We are grateful to join the NFFE-IAM and look forward to working together to restore opportunities like telework, ensuring fair access to training and advancement and building a stronger future for everyone at the USGS Water Science Center.” 

Throughout the campaign, Employees engaged their Co-Workers across the State, discussing the benefits of Collective Bargaining and the importance of having a united voice on workplace issues.

“This campaign is a perfect example of what happens when Workers take ownership of their future and stand together for a stronger voice on the job,” IAM Assistant Organizing Director Juan Eldridge said. “Rebecca and her Co-Workers built this victory from the ground up through determination, solidarity and countless conversations with their fellow Employees. We are proud to welcome these dedicated USGS Professionals into the NFFE-IAM family and look forward to helping them build a strong first contract.”

The victory adds to the Union’s growing presence among Federal and Professional Employees and highlights the increasing interest in Union Representation among Scientific and Technical Workers.

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: USGS Water Science Center Employees in New York Vote Overwhelmingly to Join NFFE-IAM - IAM Union