Approximately 1,600 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) working at Honeywell FM&T in Kansas City are expected to be furloughed starting November 1, 2025. This action follows the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has affected various programs and jobs across the United States.
The Honeywell facility operates under a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy. The site is scheduled to begin shutdown procedures on October 27, leaving only a small number of employees at work unless Congress approves funding for energy and water development appropriations.
“This is a devastating and unnecessary blow to 1,600 working families in Kansas City who proudly support our nation’s defense and energy programs,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Our members should not be used as pawns in a political stalemate. Congress must act now to end this shutdown and protect working Americans.”
IAM Local 778 represents about 1,611 workers at Honeywell FM&T. The union is working to ensure that the terms of its collective bargaining agreement are respected during the furlough period. In addition, IAM is organizing workshops aimed at helping members access unemployment benefits and other career resources if they are affected by the furlough.
“This shutdown has real consequences for the real working Americans in this country and right here in Kansas City,” said IAM Local 778 Directing Business Representative Scott Brown. “Our members are dedicated, highly skilled workers who should not be left in limbo because of Washington’s failure to pass a budget.”
The IAM Union continues to urge lawmakers to resolve the government shutdown and provide relief for federal contract workers. The union has been advocating for measures that would guarantee back pay and improve protections for federal contractors impacted by lapses in government funding.
