More than 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have voted to reject Boeing’s latest contract offer after nearly three months on strike. The union said that the company has not addressed key concerns of its workforce in St. Louis.
“Boeing claimed they listened to their employees – the result of today’s vote proves they have not,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Boeing’s corporate executives continue to insult the very people who build the world’s most advanced military aircraft — the same planes and military systems that keep our servicemembers and nation safe. Our members aren’t going to be fooled by PR spin. It’s well past time for Boeing to stop cheaping out on the workers who make its success possible and bargain a fair deal that respects their skill and sacrifice.”
Union officials noted that in September, IAM District 837 members had put forward a pre-ratified proposal intended to end the strike and return workers to their jobs. This proposal focused on three main issues: restoring retirement security through employer 401(k) contributions comparable to those offered elsewhere, stronger wage increases aligned with inflation, and a ratification bonus similar to what non-union workers at other Boeing locations received.
The union stated that their proposal would cost about $50 million over four years—approximately half the price of one F-15 fighter jet produced by these workers—but Boeing has rejected it while experiencing delays in its defense programs.
“Instead of building on our pre-ratified offer, Boeing came back with another proposal that disrespects the people who make its success possible,” said IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Boeing can end this strike tomorrow — all it has to do is put a fair deal on the table.”
The ongoing strike follows Boeing securing a multi-billion dollar F-47 contract for U.S. defense work, which relies heavily on IAM members’ expertise in manufacturing fighter aircraft such as the F-15 and F/A-18, as well as advanced missile systems.
“Our members have shown incredible unity and strength throughout this strike,” said IAM Union Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “They’re standing up not just for themselves, but for every worker who deserves fairness, respect, and the same standard of treatment. Boeing can’t keep playing favorites between regions and expect our members to accept less.”
IAM representatives emphasized that these skilled workers are essential for national security due to their role in producing key military equipment.
“From day one, our members have stood shoulder to shoulder for fairness,” said IAM Union District 837 Directing Business Representative Tom Boelling. “They know their worth and they’ve made it clear what it will take to reach an agreement. Boeing’s refusal to meet those priorities is what keeps this strike going — not our members.”
