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Boeing Workers Vote to Authorize Strike

July 18, 2024

More than 32,000 machinists in Seattle could strike if negotiations break down.

The Seattle district of the International Association of Machinists and Aeorspace Workers voted 99.9% in favor of sanctioning a strike if their contract negotiations with Boeing Co. break down.

“The bad decisions made at the executive level of the Boeing Company are short-term decisions with long-term consequences,” declared Jon Holden, president of IAM District 751, at a rally after the vote. “This lack of vision by company executives puts our members’ livelihoods at risk. Our jobs, our legacy and our reputation are on the line right now. We are fighting to change this company and to save it from itself.”

Boeing did not immediately comment on the vote.

According to a statement, the union is looking for wage increases after "10 years of stagnant wages," improvements in healthcare and retirement plans and more say for workers in overtime.

Boeing workers cannot strike before their contract expires on Sept. 12. They would only strike if negotiations break down. The vote makes strike funds readily available if they decide to strike.

The aerospace giant has faced a series of serious troubles with 737 MAX planes and scrutiny of its processes and leadership since 2018. On July 7, Boeing agreed in principle with the U.S. department of justice to plead guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States for production problems with the 737 Max, including a fuselage panel that was not secured and blew off during an Alaska Airlines flight. in January.

About the Author

Laura Putre | Senior Editor, IndustryWeek

As senior editor, Laura Putre works with IndustryWeek's editorial contributors and reports on leadership and the automotive industry as they relate to manufacturing. She joined IndustryWeek in 2015 as a staff writer covering workforce issues.

Prior to IndustryWeek, Laura reported on the healthcare industry and covered local news. She was the editor of the Chicago Journal and a staff writer for Cleveland Scene. Her national bylines include The Guardian, Slate, Pacific-Standard and The Root.

Laura was a National Press Foundation fellow in 2022.

Got a story idea? Reach out to Laura at [email protected]