Boeing Strike Update: New Contract Vote Scheduled
Over the past six weeks, more than 3,000 Boeing Defense workers in St. Louis, St. Charles, and Mascoutah have been on strike, following stalled contract negotiations. Represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837, these workers have consistently turned down contract offers from Boeing. The most recent five-year contract proposal was voted down last week.
Stalemate in Negotiations
The union, led by President Tom Boelling, has described the negotiations with Boeing as unproductive. Responding to Boeing’s offer, the union put forth its own four-year contract, to be voted on by IAM members on Friday, September 19.
Boeing’s Proposal Versus Union’s Offer
- Boeing’s Five-Year Offer: Rejected by 57% of the 3,200 union members.
- Included a $4,000 ratification bonus and a 24% wage increase over the contract term.
- Declaration from Boeing that the proposal could raise pay by an average of 45%.
In contrast, the union’s proposed four-year deal seeks a larger ratification bonus, enhanced retirement contributions, and higher wage hikes for top-scale workers.
Boeing’s Response and Union’s Determination
Boeing’s Vice President of Defense, Dan Gillian, criticized the union’s action, labeling it as a “publicity stunt” and emphasizing that it does not aid in reaching agreement terms that have already been dismissed by Boeing. Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, emphasized the influence of the workforce on Boeing’s defense operations, stressing community support for an equitable contract.
Union Vote to Determine the Next Steps
The union vote is scheduled for Friday, September 19, at St. Louis Music Park. Results will be disclosed immediately after the votes are cast. If the union’s offer is ratified, it will be submitted to Boeing as a pre-ratified agreement pending approval. A rejection from Boeing will perpetuate the strike, as the company maintains that its latest proposal is its “last, best and final offer.”
Impact on Boeing’s Operations
The ongoing strike affects key defense projects, such as the F-15EX and F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets, the T-7A Red Hawk trainer, and the MQ-25 Stingray unmanned refueler. Despite production delays, Boeing has maintained delivery schedules and flight tests.
Boeing’s Contingency Measures
Boeing has initiated contingency plans to mitigate the impacts of the strike, including the hiring of permanent replacement workers at its St. Louis defense locations. The company conducted job fairs both in-person and online on September 16, although specific numbers of replacements have not been disclosed. Union leaders have criticized this move, denouncing Boeing’s efforts to advance negotiations and accusing it of exacerbating the conflict.
Boeing stresses the need for adequate staffing to sustain its critical defense programs, even amid the continued industrial action.
