More than 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have voted to reject Boeing’s latest contract offer after nearly three months on strike. The union states that Boeing has not addressed the key priorities of its workforce in St. Louis.
“Boeing claimed they listened to their employees – the result of today’s vote proves they have not,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Boeing’s corporate executives continue to insult the very people who build the world’s most advanced military aircraft — the same planes and military systems that keep our servicemembers and nation safe. Our members aren’t going to be fooled by PR spin. It’s well past time for Boeing to stop cheaping out on the workers who make its success possible and bargain a fair deal that respects their skill and sacrifice.”
The union had previously presented a pre-ratified offer in September, which focused on retirement security, stronger wage increases, and a ratification bonus comparable to what other Boeing workers have received in different regions. The proposal would add about $50 million over four years, an amount IAM says is about half the cost of one F-15 fighter jet produced by its members.
Despite this, Boeing rejected the proposal while defense programs reportedly fall behind schedule. IAM also noted that Boeing has paid approximately $100 million in severance packages to its last two CEOs.
“Instead of building on our pre-ratified offer, Boeing came back with another proposal that disrespects the people who make its success possible,” said IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Boeing can end this strike tomorrow — all it has to do is put a fair deal on the table.”
The ongoing strike follows Boeing securing a major U.S. defense contract for the F-47 program, which relies on work from IAM members. The union contends that despite these government-funded contracts, Boeing has not invested adequately in its workforce.
“Our members have shown incredible unity and strength throughout this strike,” said IAM Union Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “They’re standing up not just for themselves, but for every worker who deserves fairness, respect, and the same standard of treatment. Boeing can’t keep playing favorites between regions and expect our members to accept less.”
IAM District 837 members are responsible for building and maintaining key military assets such as the F-15, F/A-18 jets, and advanced missile systems considered vital for national security.
“From day one, our members have stood shoulder to shoulder for fairness,” said IAM Union District 837 Directing Business Representative Tom Boelling. “They know their worth and they’ve made it clear what it will take to reach an agreement. Boeing’s refusal to meet those priorities is what keeps this strike going — not our members.”
