KINGSTON, N.Y., Dec. 15, 2023 –– Members of the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 1562 at Howmet Aerospace who have been on strike since Nov. 1, 2023, at the Kingston Business Park voted to ratify a new contract on Wed., Dec 13.
The strike involved approximately 70 IAM members consisting of assemblers, machinists, inspectors, and others who produce components for the defense and aerospace industries.
IAM Local 1562 members went on strike to highlight the wage disparity compared to workers in similar roles nationwide.
The workers who were on strike for 43 days, returned to work on Thurs., Dec. 14. The new contract, which received a majority vote in favor, will provide a 13.5 percent wage increase over three years and implement changes to how overtime is calculated.
“This agreement represents a fair compromise that addresses the concerns of our hardworking members,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “We appreciate the dedication and solidarity demonstrated by IAM Local 1562 throughout this challenging negotiation process.”
Highlights of the Agreement:
- The agreement includes a 13.5% wage increase over three years.
- 5% cap on medical
- Howmet Aerospace withdrew any proposed changes to overtime compensation.
- Increases to the pension were included in the total package negotiated prior to the strike.
- An additional sick day will be granted in year 2 of the agreement.
- Employees gain the ability to use vacation to cover sick leave with a doctor’s note.
“I am proud of the dedication shown by the negotiating committee,” said IAM District 15 Business Representative Kevin Weidman. “Our members stood strong, and we believe this offer is fair enough for us to go back to work. Our members worked tirelessly, especially through challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, and they deserve fair compensation. We are pleased to have reached an agreement that benefits our members and their families.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) 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.
December 15, 2023
