IAM Local 2789 members working at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement. The vote took place on November 12, following two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson. The contract covers about 300 workers, including 120 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), and is described as the strongest in over two decades for this workforce.
Negotiations began with non-economic proposals in early October and moved to economic topics in early November. According to Nachimson, “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve.”
Long-serving employees welcomed changes such as improvements to paid time off and the removal of an alternating lump-sum system for general pay increases, which had previously reduced worker income over time.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, praised the committee’s efforts: “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations,” said Martin. “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 commended those involved: “This agreement shows what workers can achieve when they stand together,” said Bryant. “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 members of the bargaining team were first-time negotiators and expressed gratitude for support from Southern Territory Special Representative Derek Cearley, IAM Senior Research Economist Taz Hurst, and Pamela Evans from IAM’s Winpisinger Center. He stated, “Everyone stepped up. This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
The agreement includes several notable provisions:
– Annual general wage increases over four years: 4%, 3%, 2%, then another 2%
– Elimination of lump-sum wage years so raises are fully compounded
– All paid time off now compensated at full hourly rate instead of a percentage formula
– Two additional personal vacation days usable as sick leave
– Option to skip paid time off during plant shutdowns without penalties
– A $3,000 ratification bonus
– Increases in shift differential pay, health savings account contributions, employer match on retirement plans (401(k)), and safety shoe allowance
– No increase in insurance premiums during the contract period
– Veterans Day added as a paid holiday
– Improvements to work schedules and production incentives
– Addition of Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance plan
– Indications that future work assignments and capital investment at the facility are likely
The bargaining committee consisted of Roseal Goss (Chair and Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
