Boeing has reached a tentative agreement with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. IAM Districts 751 in Washington and W24 in Portland represent more than 33,000 Boing employees. This agreement marks the first full negotiation between Boeing and IAM 751 & W24 in 16 years. The new four-year agreement includes:

• A 25% wage increase
• Reduced mandatory overtime, a new floating holiday, and 12 weeks of paid parental leave
• A $3,000 lump sum payment within 30 days
• Boeing contributing up to $4,160 per employee per year to the union’s 401(k) plan
• A commitment from Boeing to build its next new airplane in the Puget Sound

In a recent quote, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope said, “We've heard what’s important to you for the new contract. And we have reached a tentative agreement with the union on a historic offer that takes care of you and your family. The contract offer provides the largest-ever general wage increase, lower medical cost share to make healthcare more affordable, greater company contributions toward your retirement, and improvements for a better work-life balance. Just as important, this contract deepens our commitment to the Pacific Northwest. Boeing’s roots are here in Washington. It is where generations of workers have built incredible airplanes that connect the world. And it’s why we’re excited that, as part of the contract, our team in the Puget Sound region will build Boeing’s next new airplane. This would go along with our other flagship models, meaning job security for generations to come. It’s a big commitment to you and to our community.”

Workers at Ultium Cells in Tennessee will soon join the United Auto Workers (UAW). A majority of the 1,000 workers signed cards to join the union, and many believe this event marks a victory for autoworkers in the South. Ultium did not interfere with the decision and has agreed to recognize their union. 

Director Tim Smith of UAW Region 8 said, “The UAW members at Ultium and VW are proving that the new jobs of the South will be union jobs. In the battery plants and EV factories springing up from Georgia to Kentucky to Texas, workers know they deserve the same strong pay and benefits our members have won. And we’re going to make sure they have the support they need to win their unions and win their fair share.” 

Tradistine Chambers, a worker at Ultium in Spring Hill, added, “Being unionized will help us reap the benefits as far as better healthcare, better pay, and overall, just having decency within the workplace— not just for us, but future generations.”