Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have voted to reject Boeing’s latest five-year contract proposal, opting to continue their strike at Boeing’s defense facilities in St. Louis. The decision follows concerns over the offer’s signing bonus and 401(k) benefits, which members say do not match those received by other Boeing workers.
The strike began on August 4 and involves about 3,200 IAM District 837 members who work at Boeing sites in St. Louis, St. Charles, Missouri, and Mascoutah, Illinois. These workers are responsible for assembling and maintaining advanced aircraft such as the F-15 and F/A-18 fighter jets, as well as missile and defense systems that support U.S. national security efforts.
Boeing’s modified contract was rejected because it did not provide a sufficient signing bonus or an increase in retirement benefits compared to what other groups within the company have received.
“Our members in St. Louis have once again shown that they will not settle for Boeing’s half-measures,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Boeing must start listening to its employees and come back to the table with a meaningful offer that respects the sacrifices and skill of these workers.”
Tom Boelling, Directing Business Representative for IAM District 837, stated: “Our members will always have the final say in their futures. They are standing shoulder to shoulder and sending an unmistakable message: this company cannot thrive while failing to offer a contract that our members won’t accept.”
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli added: “The message could not be clearer—our members expect Boeing to do better. They will not be brushed aside with small adjustments. Boeing needs to stop dragging its feet and negotiate an agreement that honors the contributions of its workforce.”
Jody Bennett, Resident General Vice President of IAM, commented: “This strike is about fairness, respect, and real improvements. Boeing has the resources to invest in its people, yet it continues to shortchange them. Our members will not back down until the company gets serious about doing right by the workers who build America’s defense.”
The IAM Union represents around 600,000 active and retired members across various industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive sectors throughout North America.
