IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement after two weeks of negotiations. The contract, approved on November 12, covers 300 workers, including 120 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). It is described by union representatives as the strongest agreement reached at the plant in more than two decades.
Negotiations began with non-economic proposals in early October and moved to economic issues in November. Cal Nachimson, IAM District 243 Business Representative who led the talks, stated, “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve.”
Long-time employees welcomed changes such as revised paid time off policies and the elimination of an alternating lump-sum system for pay increases. These measures were said to address previous income losses among workers.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, praised the efforts of those involved: “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations,” Martin said. “Their solidarity and preparation delivered life-changing improvements for our members, and other negotiations with John Deere will follow their lead.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant also commented on the outcome: “This agreement shows what workers can achieve when they stand together,” Bryant said. “Taking the time and effort to fix long-time issues with improvements like this is something to be very proud of. This contract reflects the true value of their labor.”
Nachimson noted that three bargaining team members were first-time negotiators and acknowledged support from Derek Cearley (Southern Territory Special Representative), Taz Hurst (IAM Senior Research Economist), and Pamela Evans from IAM’s Winpisinger Center. He stated, “Everyone stepped up,” Nachimson said. “This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
Key provisions in the new contract include annual general wage increases over four years (4%, 3%, 2%, and 2%), ending lump-sum wage years in favor of compounded raises, full hourly rate for all paid time off instead of a percentage formula, two additional personal vacation days usable as sick leave, an option to skip PTO during plant shutdowns without penalties, a $3,000 ratification bonus, increased shift differentials and contributions to health savings accounts (HSA) and 401(k), no insurance premium increases throughout the contract term, Veterans Day added as a paid holiday, enhancements to work schedules and production incentives, addition of Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance, and signals pointing toward future investment at the facility.
The bargaining committee consisted of Roseal Goss (Chair/Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
