ST. LOUIS () — More than 3,200 unionized workers at Boeing Co. facilities in the St. Louis area are preparing to strike after overwhelmingly rejecting a proposed labor contract that included a 20% wage increase over four years. The contract vote, held Sunday, sets the stage for a potential work stoppage beginning August 4, following a one-week "cooling-off" period.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), District 837, announced the vote results, stating that the offer failed to meet workers’ expectations despite improvements in medical, pension, and overtime benefits. The current contract was set to expire at 11:59 p.m. CT Sunday.
Union leaders had initially endorsed the offer, describing it as a “landmark” deal when it was unveiled last week. However, union members disagreed, citing that the proposal “fell short of addressing the priorities and sacrifices” made by Boeing’s workforce.
“Our members are standing together to demand a contract that respects their work and ensures a secure future,” the union said in a statement, without disclosing specific reasons behind the contract’s rejection.
The looming strike would affect production at three key Boeing defense plants in the region responsible for manufacturing fighter jets including the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet and the U.S. Air Force’s T-7A Red Hawk trainer.
Boeing Response and Financial Outlook
Dan Gillian, vice president of Boeing Air Dominance and the senior executive in St. Louis, said the company is now “focused on preparing for a strike.” He called the proposal the “richest contract offer ever” presented to the local union.
As of now, no further negotiations are scheduled between Boeing and the union.
The vote comes just ahead of Boeing’s second-quarter earnings release, scheduled for Tuesday. Earlier this month, the company reported deliveries of 150 commercial aircraft and 36 military planes and helicopters in Q2 — an increase from 130 and 26 in the previous quarter. Boeing’s stock closed Friday at $233.06, up $1.79.
Last year, Boeing ended a 53-day strike by commercial aircraft workers with a 38% general wage increase offer. This time, the defense workforce appears resolute in holding out for what they consider a contract that reflects their value and commitment.
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