IAM District 776, which represents about 5,000 workers in Fort Worth, Texas and additional members at NAS Pax River, Maryland and Edwards Air Force Base, California, began contract negotiations with Lockheed Martin on March 26. The bargaining committee was joined by district leadership and members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Executive Council to advocate for a new agreement.
The union said that the highly skilled workforce is seeking a fair contract that reflects their value to the company. IAM District 776 President and Directing Business Representative Doyle Huddleston said, “Our membership here at Lockheed Martin manufactures the best next-generation fighters for the U.S. military and militaries across the globe. An agreement for the membership, their families, and communities must be as strong as the products they produce.”
Members at these facilities build the F-35 fighter jet. Over recent years, IAM has worked to secure federal funding for this program. According to information from IAM Union leadership included in their announcement, a record number of bipartisan members of Congress have signed on to support continued funding for the F-35.
International President Brian Bryant said about his team’s readiness: “These dedicated, experienced leaders understand the responsibility they have and are here to secure a fair agreement with the full confidence of the membership behind them.” The negotiating team completed preparation courses earlier this year covering topics such as contract language drafting and negotiation simulation.
Union leaders held town halls in addition to member surveys before negotiations began in order to hear concerns about issues including employer retirement contributions, health care costs, and wage progression. Southern Territory General Vice-President Craig Martin said: “Today and over the next several months, we are going to demand a contract that provides security and growth in the future.” Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett added: “Our members in Fort Worth have earned a strong contract…they show up to work to provide not just security for the nation but also to produce a highly profitable product for Lockheed.”
The outcome of these negotiations could affect not only local workers but also thousands more across Texas and other states connected through supply chains supporting F-35 production.
