TAM 837 recommends members accept Boeing contract offer

TAM 837 recommends members accept Boeing contract offer

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837 (IAM 837) has recommended its members accept Boeing's final contract offer, which includes a 20% general wage increase over four years, a $5,000 ratification bonus, and enhanced vacation and sick leave benefits [1]. The offer also promises faster progression to the top of the pay scale for workers. A vote is scheduled for Sunday, July 2, 2025, with the current agreement set to expire at the end of the day.

Boeing's proposal addresses the union's top priorities, according to Dan Gillian, vice president and general manager of air dominance at Boeing. The company believes the contract provides employees with financial security, respect, and a promising future in the St. Louis area. The union spokesperson, DeLane Adams, also endorsed the offer, stating that the union recommends a "yes" vote [1].

The contract negotiations between Boeing and IAM District 837 began in June and involve over 3,200 union-represented employees in the St. Louis area. Boeing has more than 16,000 workers in the region, with defense aircraft production sites in St. Louis County, St. Charles, and Mascoutah, including the F-15 and F-18 fighter jets, T-7A trainer, and MQ-25 refueling drone [1].

These negotiations come amid significant sales for Boeing, as the US Commerce Department has announced substantial Boeing sales as part of new trade agreements with Indonesia and Bahrain. Indonesia has committed to purchasing 50 Boeing aircraft, including several 777 models, while Bahrain has agreed to invest $7 billion in Boeing aircraft with an option to purchase six more [2]. These deals aim to boost American exports and secure strategic partnerships in the global market, supporting the US economy and creating jobs.

The current contract talks and potential strike authorization follow a history of labor disputes at Boeing's St. Louis-area sites. The most recent strike occurred in 1996 against McDonnell Douglas, a year before it merged with Boeing. Before that, workers went on strike in 1975 [1].

References:
[1] https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/business/article_005b5c9e-1211-4209-8e26-84b63636a017.html
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/commerce-department-posts-boeing-sale-statement-2507/