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 offer, continuing a strike that has lasted nearly three months. The union says Boeing’s proposal did not address key concerns related to retirement security, wage increases, and ratification bonuses.
IAM International President Brian Bryant commented on the vote: “Boeing claimed they listened to their employees – the result of today’s vote proves they have not. 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.”
In September, IAM District 837 presented a pre-ratified offer which included requests for employer 401(k) contributions matching those received by union members in other regions, stronger wage increases aligned with inflation, and a ratification bonus similar to what non-union workers in South Carolina and unionized workers in the Pacific Northwest have received. The union stated this proposal would cost about $50 million over four years—roughly half the price of one F-15 fighter jet produced by these workers.
Despite this, Boeing rejected the offer while its defense programs face delays. The company has also paid significant compensation packages to its former CEOs.
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli said: “Instead of building on our pre-ratified offer, Boeing came back with another proposal that disrespects the people who make its success possible. Boeing can end this strike tomorrow — all it has to do is put a fair deal on the table.”
The ongoing strike follows Boeing securing a multi-billion dollar contract for production of F-47 fighter jets—a project attributed largely to IAM members’ expertise.
Jody Bennett, Resident General Vice President at IAM Union, added: “Our members have shown incredible unity and strength throughout this strike. 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.”
Members involved in this dispute are responsible for building critical U.S. defense assets such as F-15s, F/A-18s, missiles, and other advanced systems considered vital for national security.
Tom Boelling, Directing Business Representative for District 837 concluded: “From day one, our members have stood shoulder to shoulder for fairness. 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.”
