More than 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have voted to reject Boeing’s latest contract proposal, prolonging a strike that has lasted nearly three months. The union asserts that Boeing has not addressed key concerns regarding retirement security, wage increases, and ratification bonuses.
IAM International President Brian Bryant stated, “Boeing claimed they listened to their employees – the result of today’s vote proves they have not. Boeing’s corporate executives continue to insult the very people who build the world’s most advanced military aircraft — the same planes and military systems that keep our servicemembers and nation safe. Our members aren’t going to be fooled by PR spin. It’s well past time for Boeing to stop cheaping out on the workers who make its success possible and bargain a fair deal that respects their skill and sacrifice.”
In September, union members passed a pre-ratified offer which included employer 401(k) contributions similar to those given to IAM members in other regions, stronger wage increases aligned with inflation, and a ratification bonus closer to what non-union workers in South Carolina and unionized employees in the Pacific Northwest received. The union says this proposal would add about $50 million over four years—roughly half the cost of one F-15 fighter jet produced by these workers—but Boeing rejected it.
Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, commented: “Instead of building on our pre-ratified offer, Boeing came back with another proposal that disrespects the people who make its success possible. Boeing can end this strike tomorrow — all it has to do is put a fair deal on the table.”
The ongoing strike follows Boeing’s acquisition of a multi-billion dollar F-47 contract from the U.S. government. Union leaders highlight that despite these lucrative defense contracts funded by taxpayers, Boeing has not agreed to terms similar to those offered elsewhere within its workforce.
Jody Bennett, IAM Resident General Vice President, said: “Our members have shown incredible unity and strength throughout this strike. They’re standing up not just for themselves, but for every worker who deserves fairness, respect, and the same standard of treatment. Boeing can’t keep playing favorites between regions and expect our members to accept less.”
IAM District 837 Directing Business Representative Tom Boelling added: “From day one, our members have stood shoulder to shoulder for fairness. They know their worth and they’ve made it clear what it will take to reach an agreement. Boeing’s refusal to meet those priorities is what keeps this strike going — not our members.”
The striking workers are responsible for building and maintaining key military aircraft such as the F-15 and F/A-18 fighters as well as advanced missile and defense systems essential for U.S. national security.
