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 proposal. The vote follows nearly three months of striking by union workers at Boeing’s St. Louis facilities.
IAM International President Brian Bryant stated, “Boeing claimed they listened to their employees – the result of today’s vote proves they have not. 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.”
In September, IAM District 837 presented a pre-ratified offer aimed at resolving the strike, which focused on three main priorities: restoring retirement security through improved employer 401(k) contributions comparable to those provided in other regions; increasing wages in line with inflation; and providing a ratification bonus similar to what non-union workers in South Carolina and IAM members in the Pacific Northwest received. The union noted that their proposal would cost about $50 million over four years, approximately half the price of an F-15 fighter jet produced by these workers.
Despite this offer, negotiations remain stalled. Sam Cicinelli, IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President, said, “Instead of building on our pre-ratified offer, Boeing came back with another proposal that disrespects the people who make its success possible. Boeing can end this strike tomorrow — all it has to do is put a fair deal on the table.”
The ongoing strike occurs after Boeing secured a significant contract for the F-47 fighter jet program from the U.S. government—a project made possible by IAM members’ expertise. Despite receiving substantial federal contracts for defense programs such as F-15 and F/A-18 jets as well as missile systems built by these unionized workers, Boeing has declined to meet union demands regarding compensation and benefits.
Jody Bennett, Resident General Vice President of IAM Union, commented on worker solidarity: “Our members have shown incredible unity and strength throughout this strike. 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.”
Tom Boelling, Directing Business Representative for District 837 added: “From day one, our members have stood shoulder to shoulder for fairness. 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.”
The outcome leaves uncertainty around both labor relations at Boeing’s defense manufacturing operations in St. Louis and potential impacts on U.S. military readiness.
