UPDATE: Union members at Boeing’s St. Louis facility are poised to strike after rejecting the latest contract offer, with the action set to begin at midnight on Monday. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers announced this urgent decision following a vote that took place on Sunday.
The union represents 3,200 employees who are critical to assembling Boeing’s fighter jets, including the MQ-25 aerial refueling drone. Union Business Representative Tom Boelling emphasized that IAM District 837 members “deserve a contract that reflects their skill, dedication, and the critical role they play in our nation’s defense.”
Boeing, however, is ready for the impending strike. Dan Gillian, Vice President and General Manager of Boeing Air Dominance, stated in an email to Reuters, “We are prepared for a strike and have fully implemented our contingency plan.” He expressed disappointment over the rejection of an offer that included a staggering 40% average wage growth.
The rejected proposal included a 20% wage increase over four years, a $5,000 ratification bonus, and additional vacation and sick leave. Despite these incentives, the union deemed the offer insufficient. Boeing attempted to address concerns in a revised proposal last week, which included minor compensation adjustments benefiting senior members, while maintaining current overtime policies that had previously been under discussion.
This strike marks a significant moment for Boeing’s defense operations in St. Louis, especially as the company expands its manufacturing facilities for the new F-47A fighter jet, which it secured a contract for this year. The potential strike comes on the heels of a much larger walkout last fall, when 33,000 machinists from Boeing’s commercial division struck for nearly two months, resulting in a 38% wage increase in their contract negotiations.
As the clock ticks down to midnight, all eyes are on Boeing and the union to see how this labor dispute unfolds. The strike could impact the production of critical defense systems at a time when the U.S. military is relying heavily on these advancements.
Stay tuned for live updates as this situation develops and impacts workers, families, and national defense.