IAM Leadership Gives Boost to Striking Illinois Local 660 Members at Eaton Corp.

IAM leaders recently joined the strike lines at Eaton Corp., facilities in Highland and Troy, Ill., where approximately 400 IAM Local 660 (District 9) members are holding out for a fair contract.

Amongst those hitting the picket lines were IAM International President Brian Bryant, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli, IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, and IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.) also joined with striking members.

"IAM Local 660 members have the full support of all 600,000 active and retired IAM members across North America," said IAM International President Brian Bryant. "We will stand shoulder to shoulder with them every day until our membership gets the contract they deserve."

On Sunday, Oct. 20, IAM Local 660 members voted to reject a contract offer from Eaton management that had insufficient wages to keep pace with inflation and industry standards, high health insurance costs, no improvements to work-life balance, and substandard retirement security. IAM members at Eaton are currently forced to work six day work weeks. The company is also seeking to turn a 30-minute break into two 15-minute breaks, leaving little time to have a meal. Management also wants to eliminate the two 10-minute breaks per shift.

Members also voted to strike, which began on Monday, Oct. 21.

"The entire IAM Union stands with our 400 IAM Local 660 members who are taking a stand for fairness and respect in the workplace," said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. "We will use every resource necessary to stand up to this company to get the strong and equitable contract our members rightfully deserve."

IAM members at Eaton, a global power management company in the aerospace and electric supply industries, are dedicated professionals whose jobs range from machinist to tool and die maker.

"Eaton management needs to come back to the table and negotiate a contract that treats IAM members with respect," said IAM District 9 Directing Business Representative Jason Tetidrick. "IAM Local 660 members are simply seeking a fair deal that provides a dignified living for their families and communities."