Additional Coverage:
Boeing Workers Strike After Contract Talks Fail
Thousands of unionized Boeing workers walked off the job early Monday morning at three plants in Missouri and Illinois, following unsuccessful contract negotiations. The strike affects approximately 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837 (IAM) who build fighter jets and other weapons systems at facilities in St.
Louis and St. Charles, Missouri, and Mascoutah, Illinois.
The union emphasized the importance of respect and dignity in a statement released on social media, suggesting that the sticking points go beyond mere financial considerations. This comes just days after the union membership rejected a revised contract offer from Boeing. IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli stated on Sunday that the workers “deserve nothing less than a contract that keeps their families secure and recognizes their unmatched expertise.”
Boeing expressed disappointment with the strike, highlighting the proposed contract’s 40% average wage increase and resolution of concerns regarding alternative work schedules. Dan Gillian, Boeing Air Dominance vice president and general manager, affirmed the company’s preparedness for the strike and the implementation of contingency plans to maintain operations.
The striking workers are responsible for the assembly and maintenance of critical defense systems, including F-15 and F/A-18 fighter jets. The previous contract expired in late July, and the union announced a resounding rejection of Boeing’s initial offer shortly thereafter.