CHICAGO, March 7, 2024 – A majority of 400 lab workers at a downtown Chicago artificial intelligence biotech lab have voted overwhelmingly to join the IAM Union. Workers voted in the National Labor Relations Board election on Thursday, March 7.
Tempus AI workers use artificial intelligence to research diseased cells.
“Our victory to join the IAM union shows our commitment to the future of cancer care and making Tempus AI the best employer possible,” said the IAM Tempus Worker Organizing Committee. “We look forward to negotiating a first contract that includes rigorous safety protocols, pay and benefits that align with the rest of our industry, a voice on the job, and better the outcomes for patients that Tempus serves.”
Tempus AI lab workers, many of whom carry advanced degrees, are seeking stronger safety standards, a better life-work balance, more competitive pay and benefits compared to industry colleagues, and equity and transparency from their employer.
“The IAM welcomes Tempus AI workers into our union,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Tempus AI workers, who are part of the emerging industry of AI, providing significant advances and innovations in patient care. These workers deserve respect and dignity on the job. I would like to thank IAM Midwest Territory Grand Lodge Representatives Geny Ulloa and Chris Tucker for all their dedication and organizing talents working with the Tempus AI workers to make this victory possible. With their help, Tempus AI workers have stood up and organized together for a better future.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in the manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, transportation, railroad, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.