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. The vote comes after nearly three months on strike, with union leaders stating that Boeing has not addressed key concerns of its workforce.
“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.”
Union members previously put forward a pre-ratified proposal in September, which they say would have provided a clear path to ending the strike. Their priorities included restoring retirement security after pensions were removed a decade ago, stronger wage increases to match inflation and reward experienced workers, and a ratification bonus similar to those given to non-union employees in other regions.
The union states that their proposal would cost about $50 million over four years—roughly half the price of one F-15 fighter jet produced by these workers. Despite this, Boeing has not accepted the offer while some defense programs are experiencing delays.
“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 done by IAM Union members. The union argues that despite these government contracts, Boeing is unwilling to invest more 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 aircraft such as the F-15 and F/A-18, as well as advanced missile and defense 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.”
