International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
09/24/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/24/2024 14:07
IAM Local 774 Members at Textron Aviation Remain On Strike; Ready to Bargain Fair Contract
WICHITA, Kan., Sept. 24, 2024 - Nearly 5,000 International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 774 (District 70) members at Textron Aviation in Wichita remain on strike after the expiration of the current agreement on Monday, Sept. 23. IAM 774 members overwhelmingly rejected the company's latest contract offer and voted to strike.
IAM Local 774 members have been in negotiations with Textron Aviation for months. While both sides remain in contact, mediators have been contacted, and talks could potentially resume next week.
Key sticking points in the negotiations include:
- Wages: IAM Local 774 members seek raises to keep pace with inflation and reflect their vital role in Textron's success.
- Healthcare: IAM Local 774 members want affordable and comprehensive healthcare coverage for themselves and their families.
- Job Security: IAM Local 774 members are pushing for stronger protections against layoffs and outsourcing.
- Retirement Security: IAM Local 774 members demand an improved and reliable retirement plan after decades of service.
"IAM Union members build the aircraft that make Textron Aviation a leader in the industry," said IAM International President Brian Bryant. "Our skilled and dedicated membership deserves a contract recognizing their essential contributions and ensuring they are provided the best wages and benefits."
The strike has the potential to significantly impact Wichita's economy. The nearly 5,000 workers are vital to the community, and local businesses and services could feel their absence.
"Our members at Textron Aviation deserve a contract that reflects their hard work and dedication and secures a future where they can continue to build better lives for themselves and their families," said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. "We're committed to fighting to help our members in Wichita improve and grow stronger with each negotiation."
"IAM Local 774 remains committed to securing a fair deal for our members and is prepared to stay on strike until an agreement is reached," said IAM Aerospace Coordinator Shannon Stucker. "Our negotiating team is willing and able to sit down with Textron Aviation leadership to work on an agreement that is best for both parties."
The 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, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.