Boeing is heading back to the negotiation table with its workers in St. Louis, St. Charles, and Mascoutah after a month-long strike. The employees, represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 Union, have been pushing for a contract that better meets their needs. Despite Boeing’s claim that their proposal was the most generous ever offered to IAM 837 members, the workers rejected it, leading to industrial action that began on August 4. This marks the first time both parties have met since the strike started.
The negotiations have been ongoing for months, with Boeing initially presenting a final offer on July 22. This proposal included wage hikes, a quicker route to maximum pay, additional vacation and sick leave, and enhanced pension benefits. However, the workers turned it down in a vote on July 27. A revised offer on July 31 also failed to gain approval, prompting the strike. Boeing expressed disappointment over the rejections and had to implement contingency plans to maintain operations. Now, nearly four weeks later, Boeing is ready to engage in further discussions, hoping to resolve the impasse and get its team back to work.
During the strike, informal talks continued between Boeing and the union. IAM District 837, which represents over 3,200 workers involved in assembling and maintaining advanced aircraft and weapons, has been vocal about the inadequacy of Boeing’s offers, especially in light of high inflation and the growing demand for skilled aerospace workers. The union has proposed several solutions to address these concerns. While Boeing insists its offer is the best ever for IAM 837, the union remains firm in its stance. The “Last, Best and Final Offer” is still on the table, minus a bonus that was contingent on an August 3 ratification. As negotiations resume, both sides are eager to find common ground and end the strike. #BoeingNegotiations #UnionStrike #AerospaceWorkers
Originally reported by Simple Flying Read More
