More than 250 members of IAM Local 1211 in Erie, Pennsylvania, have voted to go on strike against Parker Lord, a manufacturer of vibration and motion control components for the aerospace industry. This marks the first labor dispute for the local union since 1974.
The decision to strike comes after months of negotiations failed to resolve economic issues, primarily centered around wages that union members say have not kept up with the cost of living during their last five-year contract. The last time workers went on strike was over five decades ago when they were employed by LORD Corporation. In 2019, Parker Hannifin acquired LORD Corporation, and since then, relations between management and union employees have reportedly declined.
IAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representative Kermit Forbes stated: “Our members have shown patience and professionalism for years. But after decades without a strike, this vote reflects how serious these economic concerns have become and how determined our members are to fight for fair wages and respect on the job.”
The strike is scheduled to begin at midnight on Sunday, January 11, 2026. Union representatives say they are prepared to return to negotiations if Parker Lord presents an offer that acknowledges the skills and contributions of its workforce.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) represents about 600,000 active and retired members in various industries across North America.
