About 3,200 workers employed by Boeing plants in Missouri and Illinois walked off the job at midnight Monday. The aerospace giant turned down a $1 billion-plus contract extension. In retaliation, union members raised their voices to demand improved working conditions and justly deserved compensation.
The striking workers are part of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837, which represents employees who build aircraft and defense systems critical to national security. Union members overwhelmingly voted down Boeing’s previous four-year contract offer on July 27. The decisive nature of this vote demonstrated their frustration with the company’s proposal.
Dan Gillian, Boeing’s Air Dominance vice president and general manager, expressed disappointment over the union’s decision to strike. He noted that the proposal included significant wage increases, stating, “We’re disappointed our employees rejected an offer that featured 40% average wage growth and resolved their primary issue on alternative work schedules.”
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli noted the significance of securing a equitable contract. He continued, saying that our workers deserve benefits that give them peace of mind about their families’ futures. He remarked, “They deserve nothing less than a contract that keeps their families secure and recognizes their unmatched expertise.” Cicinelli highlighted the critical role of IAM District 837 members in maintaining national safety, affirming, “IAM District 837 members build the aircraft and defense systems that keep our country safe.”
The strike affects Boeing work in St. Louis, Missouri, and other sites in Illinois. Union representatives are urging management to return to the bargaining table. Their intention is to be responsive to all of the needs and concerns that workers are bringing to the table. The ongoing labor dispute underscores broader trends in labor relations within the aerospace industry, as employees increasingly seek better pay and work conditions.
