IAM District 837 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has announced that it will not vote on Boeing’s latest contract offer. The union stated that its bargaining committee met with Boeing through federal mediators over the past two days, but after 79 days on strike, members remain unsatisfied with the terms presented.
The union criticized Boeing’s five-year offer, calling it “nothing short of disrespectful.” According to IAM District 837, the proposal failed to address key issues such as retirement security, ratification bonuses, and top-of-scale wage growth. The union also noted that Boeing insisted on a fifth year in the contract without adding any additional value for members.
IAM District 837 raised concerns about the company’s proposed “return to work” agreement. The union said the agreement would allow managers and non-union workers to perform union members’ work for the first 30 days after returning to work. Additionally, IAM stated that Boeing wants to terminate any member who does not immediately return to work, despite some members having taken other jobs during the strike.
The union reiterated its stance: “We’ve said it many times, and we’ll say it again: we will not vote on an insulting offer.”
In September, IAM members passed a pre-ratified offer they believe provides a clear path to end the strike and gives Boeing assurance of employee approval. However, according to IAM District 837, Boeing has ignored this proposal and the concerns raised by its employees.
The union emphasized the importance of its members’ roles in building advanced military aircraft and systems. “These are not replaceable jobs. Our members deserve to be treated with the same respect and value that Boeing gives to every part of the so-called ‘One Boeing’ family the company always talks about,” IAM District 837 stated.
The statement also referenced discussions on Capitol Hill regarding Boeing’s labor practices: “As we heard today on Capitol Hill, Boeing’s greed and disdain for the very employees who make its success possible is on full display. It’s long past time for Boeing to show some respect for its workforce and come to the table with a reasonable offer that recognizes your skill, dedication and experience, as well as the value you bring to this company and our nation.”
IAM District 837 encouraged members to remain united: “Stay strong and stay united on the picket line. Together, we will continue to fight for the fair contract you deserve.”
