Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have voted to reject Boeing’s revised five-year contract proposal, choosing to continue their strike at Boeing’s defense facilities in St. Louis. The decision follows concerns that the offer did not include a signing bonus comparable to those received by other Boeing workers or an increase in 401(k) benefits.
The strike began on August 4 and involves about 3,200 IAM 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, as well as missile and defense systems used by U.S. and allied forces.
Brian Bryant, IAM International President, stated: “Our members in St. Louis have once again shown that they will not settle for Boeing’s half-measures. 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, said: “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.”
Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, 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, IAM Resident General Vice President, 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.”
IAM represents around 600,000 active and retired workers across North America in sectors including aerospace, defense manufacturing, airlines, shipbuilding, railroads, transit systems, healthcare services and automotive industries.
