The International Association of Machinists (IAM) yesterday voted by 59% to approve the most recent wage deal. The agreement will end seven weeks of strikes involving 33,000 workers.
The deal is especially important for Boeing’s CEO, who stepped into the role only five weeks before the strike. “While the past few months have been difficult for all of us, we are all part of the same team,” Kelly Ortberg said. “We will only move forward by listening and working together. There is much work ahead to return to the excellence that made Boeing an iconic company.”
IAM members, who had rejected two previous offers were also relieved by the outcome. “I’m proud of our members. It is a win,” said Jon Holden the IAM’s chief negotiator. “They achieved a lot, and we’re ready to move forward.”
The 33,000 union members who have been on strike will return to work on Wednesday. “Members are ready, ready to come back. I look forward to getting them back to work.” said Holden. Workers will receive an immediate 13% raise and a bonus of $12,000.
Although pleased with the deal, the Union is aware that its members will be disappointed that they did not obtain the pension plan they aimed to win back. “Fifty-nine percent is a lot, but there are definitely those who were not happy with the agreement,” he said. “Many of the members were fighting to get the pensions back. It’s a righteous fight.”
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
