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 proposal, continuing a strike that has lasted nearly three months in St. Louis.
The union asserts that Boeing’s most recent offer did not address key concerns of its workforce. “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.”
Union members previously passed a pre-ratified proposal in September, which included demands for improved retirement security—such as employer 401(k) contributions matching those given to IAM members in other regions—increased wages aligned with inflation, and a ratification bonus comparable to what non-union workers in South Carolina and IAM-represented employees elsewhere have received. The union estimated these improvements would cost about $50 million over four years, which is roughly half the price of an F-15 fighter jet built by these workers.
Despite this, Boeing rejected the proposal while some defense programs reportedly experienced delays. The company has also faced criticism for executive compensation practices, including providing around $100 million in payouts to its last two 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 labor dispute follows Boeing securing a multi-billion dollar contract for production of the F-47 fighter jet—a program made possible by union labor according to IAM officials.
“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 manufacturing critical U.S. defense assets such as F-15s, F/A-18s, missiles, and advanced defense systems.
“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.”
