IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement, which union officials describe as the strongest contract in more than two decades. The vote took place on November 12 after two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson.
The agreement covers approximately 300 workers, including 120 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). Negotiations began with non-economic proposals in early October, followed by economic discussions in November. According to Nachimson, “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve.”
Employees welcomed changes such as improvements to paid time off and the removal of an alternating lump-sum system for general pay increases, which had previously reduced workers’ income over time.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, praised the outcome: “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations. Their solidarity and preparation delivered life-changing improvements for our members, and other negotiations with John Deere will follow their lead.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant also commented on the significance of the agreement: “This agreement shows what workers can achieve when they stand together. Taking the time and effort to fix long-time issues with improvements like this is something to be very proud of. This contract reflects the true value of their labor.”
Nachimson acknowledged the efforts of both experienced and first-time negotiators on his team and thanked Derek Cearley (Southern Territory Special Representative), Taz Hurst (IAM Senior Research Economist), and Pamela Evans (Winpisinger Center) for their support. “Everyone stepped up,” said Nachimson. “This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
Key provisions in the new contract include annual general wage increases—4% in year one, followed by 3%, then two consecutive years at 2%. The deal ends lump-sum wage years so that raises are fully compounded each year. All paid time off will now be compensated at full hourly rates instead of a percentage formula used previously.
Other highlights include two additional personal vacation days that can serve as sick leave; an option to skip paid time off during plant shutdowns without penalty; a $3,000 ratification bonus; increased shift differentials; higher contributions to health savings accounts (HSA) and 401(k) plans; enhanced safety shoe allowances; no insurance premium increases during the life of the contract; Veterans Day added as a paid holiday; improved work schedules and production incentives; access to Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance; and indications of future work along with capital investment at the Augusta facility.
The bargaining committee consisted of Roseal Goss (Chair/Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
