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 offer after nearly three months on strike. The union stated that the company has not met its core demands related to retirement security, wage increases, and a ratification bonus.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant commented, “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.”
Earlier in September, IAM District 837 members presented a pre-ratified proposal which included demands for improved retirement benefits such as employer 401(k) contributions matching those received by union members in other regions, wage increases that reflect inflation and experience, and a ratification bonus similar to what non-union workers at Boeing facilities elsewhere have received. According to the union, this proposal would cost about $50 million over four years—approximately half the price of one F-15 fighter jet produced by these workers—yet Boeing did not accept it.
The union also pointed out that while Boeing has paid significant sums in executive compensation packages, it continues to resist investing in its workforce even as defense programs face delays.
IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli said, “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—a project made possible through IAM members’ work building military aircraft like the F-15 and F/A-18.
“Our members have shown incredible unity and strength throughout this strike,” said IAM Union Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “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.”
Tom Boelling, IAM Union District 837 Directing Business Representative 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.”
