Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 will vote on a new union-proposed contract offer this Friday, Sept. 19, in an effort to resolve a strike involving about 3,200 workers at Boeing Defense in the St. Louis area. The union developed this four-year proposal after Boeing declined to improve its previous offer, which had been rejected by the membership.
If ratified by IAM members, the proposal will be submitted to Boeing as a pre-ratified agreement that requires Boeing’s acceptance. Should Boeing decline, the strike—which has lasted over six weeks—will continue and union members say they are prepared to return to negotiations.
“Our members’ solidarity and determination are the reason we’ve been able to put forward this creative path to settlement,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Boeing needs to recognize that this workforce is the backbone of its defense operations, and the community is standing with these families until they achieve a fair contract.”
The ongoing work stoppage has affected production of military aircraft in St. Louis and reportedly costs Boeing millions of dollars daily due to lost output and delayed deliveries. Despite recent strong earnings for Boeing and a growing backlog of military aircraft orders, there has not yet been progress toward an improved deal from management.
“IAM Union members have been critical to Boeing’s success — including the recent commitment to build the F-47 right here in St. Louis,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “They build world-class military aircraft, they’ve helped deliver Boeing billions in defense contracts, and they’ve earned a contract that reflects that value.”
IAM District 837 workers are responsible for building and supporting production lines for models such as the F-15EX, F/A-18, T-7A, MQ-25, and future F-47 fighter jets.
The latest union offer aims to bring 401(k) contributions into alignment with those received by other Boeing employees, proposes higher wage increases for top-of-scale workers, and includes a ratification bonus compromise similar to those offered elsewhere within Boeing’s workforce.
Voting will take place from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at St. Louis Music Park in Maryland Heights; results are expected shortly after polls close.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired members across various industries throughout North America.
