October 31, 2025 - The United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) has a new leader at the helm.

Brian Sanson was sworn in as the union’s 16th president on October 29 during the UMWA Special Convention in St. Louis.

Sanson began his career with UMWA Local Union 2236, performing construction and maintenance work.

Over the years, he’s held a range of positions in the coal industry.

Brian Sanson

In 2000, Sanson joined the United Mine Workers of America Career Centers, counseling laid-off coal miners and helping them find new employment.

Five years later, he began working at UMWA International in the Research Department.

Sanson has played a key role in securing multiple National Bituminous Coal Wage Agreements.

He also served as a lead negotiator in several high-profile bankruptcy cases.

Before becoming International Secretary-Treasurer, Sanson served as Director of Research, overseeing the Collective Bargaining Office and Contract Department.

He also acted as the UMWA’s liaison to the Health and Retirement Funds, providing pension and healthcare benefits to thousands of miners, dependents, and surviving spouses.

Additionally, Sanson chaired the Patriot Retirees Voluntary Employees’ Beneficiary Association, supporting over 12,800 retired miners and their families.

Sanson succeeds longtime president Cecil Roberts, following his retirement after more than 50 years of service, including 30 years as UMWA president.

Roberts took office in 1995 after serving as the union’s vice president since 1982.

Sanson now leads one of the nation’s oldest labor organizations, representing coal miners, manufacturing workers, and public employees.

Visit UMWA.org for more information.