Approximately 317 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 850 in Oklahoma City have ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC). The contract, which covers full-time, part-time, and casual Air Traffic Controller Instructors at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, was approved on August 19.
Craig Martin, IAM Union Southern Territory General Vice President, commented on the significance of the agreement. “This agreement is a major step forward for our members who dedicate themselves to training the next generation of air traffic controllers,” said Martin. “We still have some work to do to help us recruit and retain instructors while improving quality of life for a workforce that has carried a heavy load to meet the mission.”
The new contract includes several key provisions:
– A 3% annual wage increase for each year of the agreement.
– A $30 daily travel reimbursement increase for members living outside Oklahoma City.
– Enhanced incentives during holidays and peak periods, including increased daily bonuses for working during federal holiday weeks and between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
– Veterans Services protections with language allowing IAM’s Veterans Services Department annual facility access to assist members with VA claims.
– Updates to contractual language covering other areas of the collective bargaining agreement.
The negotiating committee highlighted ongoing challenges in attracting new instructors and supporting current staff who often work double shifts or extended hours to fulfill Federal Aviation Administration training requirements.
Ben Moody, IAM Union District 171 President and Directing Business Representative, addressed these issues: “Our members take tremendous pride in their work and in the critical role they play in our nation’s aviation safety,” said Moody. “This contract recognizes that sacrifice and lays the foundation to ensure the FAA has the skilled instructors it needs for years to come.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired workers across various industries throughout North America.
