On November 12, 2025, members of IAM Local 2789 at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement. The contract covers 300 workers, including 120 IAM members. Negotiations lasted two weeks and were led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson.
Talks began in early October with non-economic proposals. Economic issues were discussed in early November. Both sides reached an agreement on several key points. Changes to paid time off and the removal of the alternating lump-sum pay system were important for long-time employees.
IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin and IAM International President Brian Bryant both acknowledged the bargaining committee’s work. They noted the importance of worker unity in the negotiation process…