Michael J. Barnes has served on the IATSE General Executive Board since 1998. He is an active member of IATSE Locals 8 and 52. Barnes served as President and Business Agent for Local 8 from 1991 to 2021 and served as Region 2 Representative for Local 52 for twenty-four years. In 2021, Barnes was named Co-Director of the Stagecraft Department.

The IATSE is a family tradition in the Barnes family. His Grandfather became a member of Local 8 in 1917, his father joined in 1947. Barnes two daughters and son are also members of IATSE.