Boeing Moves to Replace Striking Union Workers
Boeing Defence has announced plans to hire permanent workers to replace members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) who are currently on strike in the St. Louis area. These workers assemble munitions, military aircraft, and fighter jets. The move was confirmed in a message sent to employees by Boeing Defence Vice President Dan Gillian on Thursday.
“Today, we’re starting the process to hire permanent replacement workers for manufacturing roles,” Gillian said. “This will ensure we’re properly staffed to keep supporting our customers.”
Union Pushes for Talks, Not Replacements
Union leaders have criticised Boeing’s decision, urging the company to return to the negotiation table instead. IAM International President Brian Bryant stated, “Boeing is doubling down on its mismanagement by saying it plans to hire replacement workers to build military aircraft and equipment, instead of negotiating with their dedicated, generational and skilled workforce.”
The strike began on August 4 after 3,200 IAM District 837 members rejected a four-year contract offer, with 67% voting against it. Boeing has been using non-union employees to continue production, though some programmes have slowed as a result.
Gillian mentioned that while Boeing is open to minor adjustments in its offer, it will not consider significant changes. Job listings went live on Thursday, and a job fair is scheduled for 16 September. New hires will be required to undergo standard training and certification, including obtaining security clearances for certain roles.
Legal Grounds and Union Response
Under federal law, companies are allowed to permanently replace workers who strike over contract negotiations. According to Boeing spokeswoman Didi VanNierop, if a striking worker’s role is filled, they will be placed on a recall list until a suitable position becomes available.
However, labour experts note that these replacement workers can be laid off as part of any strike-ending agreement between the company and the union. IAM District 837 President Tom Boelling noted that getting security clearance, especially for sensitive roles like assembling the F/A-18 fighter, typically takes about six months.
Contract Disputes and Industry Impact
Boeing has invested billions in expanding its manufacturing and engineering facilities in the St. Louis area, including work on the newly contracted F-47A fighter jet for the US Air Force. The company is also in the running to develop the Navy’s new F/A-XX fighter. Gillian acknowledged the striking machinists as being vital to these projects.
The contract rejected by workers included a 20% general wage increase, quicker wage progression, added vacation and sick leave, and a $5,000 ratification bonus, which was later withdrawn. Boeing claimed that the average compensation increase would be 40% over the contract’s duration.
By contrast, a seven-week strike by IAM members in Washington and Oregon ended with a 38% wage increase and a $12,000 signing bonus. Boeing also awarded a $12,000 bonus to non-union workers in South Carolina. Bryant called Boeing’s decision not to offer the same to St. Louis workers “a slap in the face.”
with inputs from Reuters