Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have voted to reject Boeing’s latest five-year contract proposal, choosing to continue their strike at Boeing’s defense facilities in St. Louis. The vote comes after members determined that the modified offer did not provide a sufficient signing bonus compared to other Boeing employees or an increase in 401(k) benefits.
The strike, which began on August 4, involves about 3,200 IAM District 837 members who work at Boeing locations in St. Louis, St. Charles, Missouri, and Mascoutah, Illinois. These workers are responsible for assembling and maintaining advanced aircraft and weapons systems such as the F-15 and F/A-18 fighter jets, as well as missile and defense technologies used by U.S. and allied forces.
“Our members in St. Louis have once again shown that they will not settle for Boeing’s half-measures,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Boeing must start listening to its employees and come back to the table with a meaningful offer that respects the sacrifices and skill of these workers.”
Tom Boelling, Directing Business Representative for IAM District 837, stated: “Our members will always have the final say in their futures. They are standing shoulder to shoulder and sending an unmistakable message: this company cannot thrive while failing to offer a contract that our members won’t accept.”
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli added: “The message could not be clearer—our members expect Boeing to do better. They will not be brushed aside with small adjustments. Boeing needs to stop dragging its feet and negotiate an agreement that honors the contributions of its workforce.”
“This strike is about fairness, respect, and real improvements,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “Boeing has the resources to invest in its people, yet it continues to shortchange them. Our members will not back down until the company gets serious about doing right by the workers who build America’s defense.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members across industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, among others throughout the United States and Canada.
