IAM District 837 has officially opened the economic portion of high-stakes contract negotiations with Boeing Defense. The IAM Union represents more than 3,200 highly skilled members at facilities in St. Louis, St. Charles, Mo., and Mascoutah, Ill.
IAM Union members are the driving force behind Boeing’s military production, assembling and maintaining advanced aircraft and weapons systems, including the F-15, F/A-18, and cutting-edge missile and defense technologies. Their work plays a vital role in safeguarding national security and supporting U.S. and allied defense operations.
“Boeing’s success in defense depends on our members,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “These negotiations are about securing the future, for the workforce, for our families, and for American manufacturing.”
“We’re here to fight for the wages, healthcare, retirement, and job security our members have earned,” said IAM District 837 Directing Business Representative Tom Boelling. “This is about protecting families, jobs, and ensuring the people who build America’s defense are treated with the respect they deserve.”
IAM District 837 members’ priorities in this round of bargaining are focused on securing a contract that truly reflects the value of their labor and addresses critical workplace concerns:
- General Wage Increases: Ensure Boeing jobs are seen as long-term careers, not just stepping stones.
- Faster Pay Progression: Reduce the time it takes to reach top pay rates within labor grades.
- More Paid Time Off: Increase vacation and sick leave to combat fatigue and support better work-life balance.
- Stronger Retirement Benefits: Secure long-term retirement stability for our members and their families.
- Improved Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA): Strengthen the formula so members aren’t left behind by rising inflation.
“The IAM will stand shoulder to shoulder with our members at Boeing Defense,” said IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “They’ve earned the right to a strong contract, and we will back them every step of the way.”
“Our members are the hands behind the mission, the people who make sure every system works, every bolt is tight, and every jet is ready,” said IAM Union Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “It’s time Boeing shows us the same precision and respect in this contract.”
The 2025 negotiations come at a crucial moment. Boeing Defense continues to face intense global competition, program delays, and a tight labor market, making IAM members’ experience, expertise, and dedication more crucial than ever.
With the current contract set to expire on July 27, 2025, IAM District 837 members are standing united, ready to fight for a fair agreement that honors their contributions and secures their future.
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