More than 250 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 1211 have ratified a new four-year contract with Parker Lord, ending a two-week strike. The workers manufacture vibration and motion control components for the aerospace industry in Erie, Pennsylvania.
This agreement follows a period of deteriorating relations since Parker Hannifin acquired LORD Corporation in 2019. The recent labor action was prompted by concerns over stagnant wages that had not kept up with inflation and cost-of-living increases. The last strike by this group occurred in 1974.
The new contract includes annual wage increases of 3.5% for each year, a $2,000 signing bonus in the first year, and an additional $500 bonus in the second year. Total bonuses can range from $2,000 to $12,000 per member. Other provisions include two extra paid holidays (bringing the total to 13), an additional half-day personal day (for a total of five), improved retirement eligibility with full pension benefits restored when age plus years of service equals 90 instead of 95, yearly pension increases of at least $1, four weeks of paid parental leave, and more vacation days for long-term employees.
“These gains represent real progress for working families,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “This agreement proves what IAM members can accomplish when they stand together and refuse to back down. The members of Local 1211 showed remarkable solidarity, and their unity delivered real economic improvements and renewed respect on the job.”
“The bargaining committee and shop stewards did an outstanding job representing the membership,” said IAM District 98 Directing Business Representative Kevin Hallam. “This agreement shows what can be achieved when working families stand united and demand a fair share of the value they create.”
“Our members stood strong and showed incredible unity during this difficult process,” said IAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representative Kermit Forbes. “This agreement reflects the power of solidarity and ensures that our members receive the respect, security, and economic fairness they deserve.”
“This contract is a direct result of the determination and courage shown by the members of Local 1211,” said IAM District 98 Business Representative Tony Polacci. “They sent a clear message that they would not accept falling behind, and their resolve at the bargaining table made these gains possible.”
Members are scheduled to return to work on January 26 under terms aimed at improving economic conditions, retirement security, time off policies, and family benefits.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired members across several industries throughout North America.
