Around 3,000 Boeing defense unit workers have gone on strike after rejecting a contract proposal by the company. The proposed contract offered a 20% increase in wages and $5,000 contract signing bonuses. The contact also included wage increases for employees at the top of the pay scale and improved retirement benefits, according to the union representing the workers, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837. Most of the workers based in the St. Louis, Missouri.
“IAM District 837 members have spoken loud and clear, they deserve a contract that reflects their skill, dedication, and the critical role they play in our nation’s defense,” said Tom Boelling, directing business representative for IAM District 837. “We stand shoulder to shoulder with these working families as they fight for fairness and respect on the job.”
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg appear to dismiss the impact of a strike during a company result call the previous week.
“We’ll manage through this. I wouldn’t worry too much about the implications of the strike. We’ll manage our way through that,” he said on the earnings call.