William Holayter oral history interview, November 22, 2012

Interviewed by Rachel Bernstein. Holaytor recalls growing up in a strong union environment in East Chicago, Indiana. He discusses his father’s early background and immigration to the United States. He talks about his family’s relocation to California because of environmental concerns. He discusses his Navy service and talks about his early work history as a journeyman machinist. Holayter joins the IAMAW at Hiller Helicopters where he worked as an aircraft welder and becomes shop steward. Holayter goes to work for Westinghouse and becomes very active in the union, serving as assistant chief steward. He then becomes shop steward and business agent. In 1969, he moves to Washington, DC to take the position of assistant political director, becoming political director in 1972. Holayter recalls working on various political campaigns, including those of Nancy Pelosi and George McGovern. He discusses his retirement in 1992 and his work with machinists’ retiree program.