HARTFORD, Conn., May 27, 2025 — Approximately 3,000 IAM Union Local 1746 and Local 700 (District 26) members have voted by 74% to ratify a new four-year collective bargaining agreement with engine-maker Pratt & Whitney, officially ending the three-week strike that began on Monday, May 5. Members will return to work tomorrow.
IAM members at Pratt & Whitney produce and maintain jet aircraft engines for military and commercial jets, such as the KC-46 air refueling tanker, the F-35 joint strike fighter, and the A320 commercial airliner.
The new agreement addresses key member concerns surrounding wage growth, retirement security, and job stability. The ratification follows a new round of bargaining and a strong show of solidarity from IAM members and their allies across the state of Connecticut.
Some highlights of the agreement ratified by IAM Union Local 1746 and Local 700 (District 26) members include:
- Job Security:
- Continued operations in East Hartford and Middletown facilities through 2029.
- No involuntary layoffs if parts are subcontracted for more than 90 days without a return date.
- New agreement regarding job protections for turbine airfoil production and a voluntary separation program.
- Contract Term: New four-year contract from May 28, 2025 to May 4, 2029.
- Wages:
- 6% increase in the first year (includes $0.57 cost-of-living adjustment added to base pay, 2% special adjustment, and 4% general wage increase).
- Future general wage increases: 3.5% (2026), 3% (2027), and 3% (2028).
- Promotions: Pay increase of $1 or up to the maximum pay for the new job level, whichever is less.
- Pension Plan:
- Pension payment amount increases from $94 to $113 (effective June 1, 2025).
- Pension plan contributions end December 31, 2028, and a savings plan will begin January 1, 2029.
- New options for retirees to receive their pension as a lump sum or while still employed.
- Savings Plan:
- The maximum weekly matched contribution rises to $115 by 2028, matched 100%.
- Company automatic contributions increase each year with the GWIs, starting at $118 in 2025.
- Work Schedules: More flexible workweek options for employees.
“Our committee worked tirelessly to ensure our members’ priorities were heard, and this agreement is a direct result of that determination,” said IAM Union District 26 Directing Business Representative Jeff Santini. “We are proud of what was achieved at the table and even prouder of the solidarity shown by our membership throughout this process.”
IAM leadership credited the strength and unity of the membership in securing an improved offer from the company.
“Pratt & Whitney is a leader in the aerospace industry because of the dedication and skill of our members,” said IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “The voice of the membership was heard loud and clear — and this new agreement reflects the value they bring to Pratt & Whitney. I commend this committee for reflecting the will of the membership.”
This agreement shows the negotiating committee’s commitment to protecting the future for all generations of workers
“We fight every day for the well-being of our IAM members across North America,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “This ratified agreement is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and the importance of respecting the workforce. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Pratt & Whitney in a way that strengthens both our members and the company.”
IAM Union members at Locals 700 and 1746 play a critical role in Pratt & Whitney’s military and commercial aerospace production.
“Our members stood together with strength and resolve,” said IAM Local 700 President Wayne McCarthy. “This agreement includes real gains for our members and proves what we can accomplish when we stick together.”
IAM members were supported on the picket lines by the Connecticut AFL-CIO and from the likes of U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, U.S Sen. Chris Murphy, U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, U.S. Rep. John Larson, U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes, Gov. Ned Lamont, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, State Attorney General William Tong, State Treasurer Erick Russell, as well as many other state and local officials.
“We went into these negotiations with clear goals, and thanks to the support and unity of our membership, we’ve delivered results,” said IAM Local 1746 President Howie Huestis. “This contract puts our members in a stronger position for the future, and we’re proud of the work that went into making it happen.”
The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.
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