PACCAR's Electric Vehicle Transition: A Boon for Workers, Economy, and Environment

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has selected PACCAR, operating as Kenworth, as a recipient of its Domestic Manufacturing Conversion Grant Program. This program supports the transition to zero-emission vehicles, and the grant will help convert the PACCAR facility in Renton, Wash., to manufacture electric vehicles (EVs) and their supply chains. This move is a significant step forward for the environment, the local economy, and the members of IAM Union District 160, who will benefit from the retention of their skilled workforce and valuable upskilling opportunities.

The DOE is investing over $1.8 billion through the Inflation Reduction Act to support the conversion of 13 closed or at-risk auto manufacturing and assembly facilities across the United States. This investment will create new zero-emission trucks and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities while ensuring the retention of skilled workers and offering valuable opportunities for upskilling existing members.

IAM Union Western Territory General Vice President Robert "Bobby" Martinez expressed his enthusiasm for the funding support, stating that it will have a massive impact on IAM Union members in Washington state. He emphasized that the grant will not only preserve the workforce in the facility but also develop the skills of existing members, strengthening their position in the burgeoning electric vehicle industry.

IAM Union District 160 Directing Business Representative Steve Miller echoed Martinez's sentiments, highlighting the multiple benefits of the investment. He noted that the conversion will create new zero-emission trucks, strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, and ensure the retention of the skilled workforce while offering valuable opportunities for upskilling existing members. This will further enhance the skill level within the community.

The grant award announcement states that PACCAR's Conversion IMPACT plan will attract and retain workers through collaboration with various unions, including International Association of Machinists, Local 289 and Local 79, Sheet Metal Workers (SMART), Local 66, International Painters & Allied Trades, Local 1094, and Teamsters, Local 763. This collaboration will train workers and convert the facility in Renton, Wash., to produce electric vehicles.

Miller also expressed his gratitude to IAM Union National Legislative and Political Director Hasan Soloman, Assistant Director Loren Ameroth, and the entire IAM Legislative and Political Department for their efforts in pushing this initiative forward. He emphasized that a strong legislative team is crucial for securing competitive grants like this one, which is a significant step forward for the environment, the local economy, and the members of IAM Union District 160.



The transition to electric vehicle manufacturing offers numerous strategic advantages for PACCAR and its Kenworth division. By investing in the conversion, PACCAR can access government funding, upskill and retain its skilled workforce, expand into the growing EV market, enhance its brand image, and potentially achieve cost savings and efficiency gains. These advantages can help PACCAR maintain and even improve its competitive position in the market.

The upskilling and retention of the existing workforce at the Kenworth facility will contribute significantly to the overall success of the conversion project. By retaining and upskilling the workforce, Kenworth can maintain institutional knowledge, minimize downtime, and reduce training costs. This will help ensure a smooth transition to electric vehicle production. For the employees, the upskilling opportunities will provide valuable new skills and knowledge, making them more adaptable and competitive in the job market. This will not only secure their employment at the facility but also open up new career opportunities within the burgeoning electric vehicle industry.

In conclusion, the transition to electric vehicle manufacturing, supported by the Domestic Manufacturing Conversion Grant Program, is a win-win situation for PACCAR, its employees, and the environment. The investment in converting the Renton, Wash., facility to produce electric vehicles will create new zero-emission trucks, strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, and ensure the retention of the skilled workforce while offering valuable upskilling opportunities. This will not only contribute to the long-term financial performance of PACCAR but also create a more sustainable and prosperous future for the local economy and its residents.