Background on the Striking Workers and Their Union
Approximately 3,200 workers from Boeing factories in Missouri and Illinois have been on strike since August 4, represented by District 837 of the International Association of Machiners and Aerospace Workers (IAM).
The IAM is one of the largest unions in North America, representing around 600,000 workers across various industries including aerospace, defense, shipbuilding, transportation, healthcare, manufacturing, and more.
Failed Negotiations and Union’s Stance
On Monday, Boeing and the IAM resumed wage negotiations. After two days with a federal mediator, Boeing presented the union with a revised contract offer considering their feedback.
Dan Gillian, head of Boeing’s Air Dominance division, stated in a message to striking workers: “We have offered you a revised social contract based on the comments we’ve received from you. Unfortunately, after weeks of discussing their democratic process, IAM leaders refuse to let members vote on this offer and end the strike.”
The IAM responded, “We will not put Boeing’s offer to a vote.”
Impact on Production and Boeing’s Response
The striking workers are responsible for producing Boeing’s F-15 and F-18 fighter jets, the T-7 Red Hawk advanced pilot training system, and the MQ-25 unmanned aerial vehicle.
This strike follows an interruption in Boeing’s commercial aviation business affecting around 33,000 workers for over seven weeks in 2024.
In response, Boeing initiated a campaign on September 4 to hire “permanent” workers to replace those on strike.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the striking workers? Approximately 3,200 Boeing workers from factories in Missouri and Illinois.
- Which union represents them? District 837 of the International Association of Machiners and Aerospace Workers (IAM).
- What products do the striking workers produce? F-15 and F-18 fighter jets, T-7 Red Hawk advanced pilot training system, and MQ-25 unmanned aerial vehicle.
- Why are the workers striking? Due to disagreements over wages and working conditions, leading to failed negotiations with Boeing.
- What is the IAM? One of the largest unions in North America, representing around 600,000 workers across various industries.
- How has Boeing responded to the strike? Boeing attempted to hire permanent workers to replace those on strike.
