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 after nearly three months on strike. The union stated that Boeing’s offer failed to address key issues important to its workforce.
“Boeing claimed they listened to their employees – the result of today’s vote proves they have not,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “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.”
The union had previously submitted a pre-ratified offer in September, which included requests for improved retirement security with employer 401(k) contributions matching those provided to IAM members in other regions, higher wage increases aligned with inflation, and a ratification bonus similar to what non-union workers in South Carolina and IAM members in the Pacific Northwest received. According to the union, these improvements would cost about $50 million over four years, roughly half the price of one F-15 fighter jet produced by these workers.
Union leaders criticized Boeing for not accepting this proposal despite delays in defense programs and high executive compensation packages. “Instead of building on our pre-ratified offer, Boeing came back with another proposal that disrespects the people who make its success possible,” said IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Boeing can end this strike tomorrow — all it has to do is put a fair deal on the table.”
The ongoing labor dispute follows Boeing securing a multi-billion dollar contract for the F-47 fighter jet program, work made possible by IAM members’ skills. Despite receiving significant government contracts, union representatives argue that Boeing has not invested sufficiently in its workforce.
“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.”
IAM District 837 members are responsible for producing critical military assets such as the F-15, F/A-18 jets, as well as advanced missile and defense systems essential for U.S. national security.
“From day one, our members have stood shoulder to shoulder for fairness,” said IAM Union District 837 Directing Business Representative Tom Boelling. “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.”
