IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement, marking what many consider the most significant contract in over two decades for the workforce. The vote took place on November 12 after two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson.
The agreement covers about 300 workers, including 120 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). Negotiations began with non-economic proposals in early October, followed by economic discussions starting November 3. Nachimson noted that both parties quickly moved into productive talks. “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve,” said Nachimson.
Veteran employees welcomed changes such as improvements to paid time off and an end to alternating lump-sum pay increases, which had previously reduced earnings over time.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, praised the committee’s efforts: “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations,” said Martin. “Their solidarity and preparation delivered life-changing improvements for our members, and other negotiations with John Deere will follow their lead.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant also recognized the achievements: “This agreement shows what workers can achieve when they stand together,” said Bryant. “Taking the time and effort to fix long-time issues with improvements like this is something to be very proud of. This contract reflects the true value of their labor.”
Nachimson highlighted teamwork among negotiators—three of whom were participating in their first negotiations—and expressed gratitude to Southern Territory Special Representative Derek Cearley, IAM Senior Research Economist Taz Hurst, and Pamela Evans from IAM’s Winpisinger Center for their support. “Everyone stepped up,” said Nachimson. “This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
Key elements of the new contract include annual general wage increases over four years (4%, 3%, 2%, and 2%), ending lump-sum wage years in favor of compounded raises, full hourly rate paid time off instead of a percentage formula, two additional personal vacation days functioning as sick leave, an option to skip PTO during plant shutdowns without penalties, a $3,000 ratification bonus, increased shift differentials and contributions to health savings accounts (HSA) and retirement plans, no insurance premium hikes during the contract period, Veterans Day as a paid holiday, improved work schedules and production incentives, access to Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance, and signs pointing toward future work and capital investment at the Augusta facility.
The bargaining committee was chaired by Roseal Goss (Local 2789 President), with Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel also serving on the team.
