More than 250 members of IAM Local 1211, who produce vibration and motion control components for the aerospace sector, have voted to strike against Parker Lord in Erie, Pennsylvania. The decision follows ongoing disputes over economic issues, particularly concerns that wages have not kept up with the cost of living during the most recent five-year contract.
This is the first labor dispute for IAM Local 1211 in more than fifty years. The last strike occurred in 1974 when members were employed by LORD Corporation. In 2019, Parker Hannifin acquired LORD Corporation, and since then, relations between union employees and management have declined.
Union officials state that their efforts to negotiate a fair agreement were unsuccessful because Parker Lord did not provide economic proposals meeting workers’ needs. The strike is scheduled to begin at midnight on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
“Our members have shown patience and professionalism for years,” said IAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representative Kermit Forbes. “But after decades without a strike, this vote reflects how serious these economic concerns have become and how determined our members are to fight for fair wages and respect on the job.”
IAM Local 1211 has indicated it remains willing to negotiate and called on Parker Lord to make an offer recognizing employees’ contributions.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired workers across various industries in North America.
