IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement, following two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson. The contract, approved on November 12, covers about 300 workers—including 120 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM)—and is described as the most robust agreement for these employees in more than two decades.
Negotiations started with non-economic issues in early October before moving to economic matters in November. According to Nachimson, “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve.”
Veteran employees welcomed changes such as improvements to paid time off and the end of an alternating lump-sum pay system that had previously resulted in lost income over time.
Craig Martin, General Vice President for IAM Southern Territory, said, “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 praised the outcome: “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 highlighted the contributions from all negotiation team members—three of whom were first-time negotiators—and thanked Derek Cearley (Southern Territory Special Representative), Taz Hurst (Senior Research Economist), and Pamela Evans (Winpisinger Center) for their support. He added, “Everyone stepped up. This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
The newly ratified contract provides several notable gains:
– Annual general wage increases set at 4%, 3%, 2%, and 2% over four years.
– The elimination of lump-sum wage years ensures raises are fully compounded.
– All paid time off will now be paid at full hourly rates instead of a percentage formula.
– Two additional personal vacation days that can serve as sick leave.
– Employees may skip paid time off during plant shutdowns without penalty.
– A $3,000 ratification bonus for covered employees.
– Increases in shift differentials, health savings account contributions, company 401(k) match, and safety shoe allowance.
– Insurance premiums will remain unchanged throughout the duration of the contract.
– Veterans Day has been added as a paid holiday.
– Adjustments to work schedules and production incentives were included.
– Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance was added as an option.
– There are strong indications that future work assignments and capital investments may occur at the facility.
The bargaining committee consisted of Roseal Goss (Chair and Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
