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. The workers, who have been on strike for nearly three months in St. Louis, say the company has not addressed their key demands.
“Boeing claimed they listened to their employees – the result of today’s vote proves they have not,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “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, union members passed a pre-ratified proposal that focused on three main priorities: restoring retirement security through employer 401(k) contributions similar to those provided in other regions, increasing wages in line with inflation and experience, and offering a ratification bonus comparable to what non-union and other unionized Boeing workers received elsewhere. The union stated that its proposal would add about $50 million over four years, which it compared to half the cost of an F-15 fighter jet produced by its members.
Union leaders criticized Boeing for rejecting this proposal while its defense programs face delays and after awarding large payouts to former CEOs. “Instead of building on our pre-ratified offer, Boeing came back with another proposal that disrespects the people who make its success possible,” said IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Boeing can end this strike tomorrow — all it has to do is put a fair deal on the table.”
The ongoing strike follows Boeing’s recent award of a multi-billion dollar contract for the F-47 fighter jet program, which relies on IAM workers’ expertise. Despite these contracts funded by taxpayers, union officials say Boeing has not invested enough in its workforce.
“Our members have shown incredible unity and strength throughout this strike,” said IAM Union Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “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.”
IAM District 837 members are responsible for building key military equipment such as F-15s, F/A-18s, missiles, and defense systems vital to U.S. national security.
“From day one, our members have stood shoulder to shoulder for fairness,” said IAM Union District 837 Directing Business Representative Tom Boelling. “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.”
