Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have voted to reject Boeing’s revised five-year contract offer, opting to continue their strike at Boeing’s defense facilities in St. Louis.
The union stated that the modified proposal from Boeing did not include a signing bonus comparable to those received by other Boeing workers or an increase in 401(k) benefits. About 3,200 IAM members are participating in the strike, which began on August 4. These workers assemble and maintain advanced aircraft and weapons systems, including the F-15 and F/A-18 jets, as well as missile and defense technologies used by U.S. and allied forces.
“Our members in St. Louis have once again shown that they will not settle for Boeing’s half-measures,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Boeing must start listening to its employees and come back to the table with a meaningful offer that respects the sacrifices and skill of these workers.”
Tom Boelling, Directing Business Representative for IAM District 837, emphasized the importance of member participation in decision-making: “Our members will always have the final say in their futures. They are standing shoulder to shoulder and sending an unmistakable message: this company cannot thrive while failing to offer a contract that our members won’t accept.”
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli added: “The message could not be clearer—our members expect Boeing to do better. They will not be brushed aside with small adjustments. Boeing needs to stop dragging its feet and negotiate an agreement that honors the contributions of its workforce.”
Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett highlighted broader concerns about fairness: “This strike is about fairness, respect, and real improvements. Boeing has the resources to invest in its people, yet it continues to shortchange them. Our members will not back down until the company gets serious about doing right by the workers who build America’s defense.”
The IAM represents around 600,000 active and retired members across North America in sectors such as aerospace, defense, railroads, healthcare, automotive, shipbuilding, transit, and airlines.
