Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 78 (District 10) at the Harley-Davidson plant in Milwaukee have overwhelmingly ratified a new industry-leading five-year collective bargaining agreement.

The new five-year agreement guarantees wage increases averaging more than 25% over the contract.

Other highlights include:

• Increase in paid breaks during eight-hour continuous shifts
• An enhanced vacation time earning schedule, including the addition of a fifth week
• Inclusion of Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a paid holiday
• Expansion of paid personal time from 20 to 30 hours
• Increase in profit-sharing percentages
• A raise in the pension multiplier
• An increase of the company match to the 401(k) from 50% of the first 6% to 75% of the first 6%
• A $4,000 ratification bonus

“I want to thank the negotiating committee for their hard work and diligence working for the membership on this ratified contract that delivers increased wages and benefits,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “This contract reflects IAM Local 78 members’ skills and dedication to making Harley-Davidson one of the most successful iconic brands in the world.”

“This agreement represents a significant step forward for our workforce, with no concessions made,” said IAM Director of Collective Bargaining Craig Norman. “We are proud to have secured substantial benefits for our members, including notable wage increases and improvements in working conditions.”

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in the manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2023 – Robert Martinez Jr., International President of the 600,000-member International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), released the following statement strongly supporting the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act: 

“The IAM commends the unwavering dedication and commitment of Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and Senator Tina Smith, alongside Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton and Donald Norcross, for introducing the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act. This crucial legislation aims to protect the livelihoods of federal contract workers who would be adversely affected by a potential government shutdown.

“Over 1 million federal contract workers went without pay during the 35-day government shutdown in early 2019, including thousands of furloughed IAM members. In a time when government shutdowns loom as a stark reality, the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act offers hope to those who often find themselves caught in the crossfire of political disputes. This bill builds upon the legislation introduced in 2019 during the longest government shutdown in our nation’s history.

“If enacted, the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act will provide a lifeline to federal contract workers, including those families facing the reality of missing payments on their mortgages, student loans, school tuition, car loans, health care premiums, daycare, interest fees, and so many other expenses. These dedicated individuals play a vital role in maintaining the smooth operation of our government and deserve to be fairly compensated. 

“Our nation’s federal contract workers, often overlooked heroes, provide essential services that keep our government functioning. They should never have to bear the brunt of political discord in the form of lost wages and benefits during a government shutdown. We applaud Rep. Pressley, Sen. Smith, and Reps. Norton and Norcross for their tireless efforts to ensure these hardworking Americans are protected and fairly compensated.

“The IAM strongly urges members of Congress from both sides of the aisle to come together and pass this vital legislation. By doing so, we can send a clear message that our government values and respects the contributions of all its workers.” 

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. 

 goIAM.org | @MachinistsUnion

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Approximately 500 members of IAM Local 912 in Cincinnati, OH voted Tuesday to accept a new contract from General Electric. IAM members work in General Electric’s aerospace division.

The new 26-month deal keeps the defined benefit pension plan, improves the retirement savings plan, and holds the line for the cost of health care, including medical, dental and vision. The agreement provides general wage increases of 5.7 % in July of 2023 and 7.0 % in July 2024.

The bargaining committee also negotiated job security with a minimum workforce guarantee requiring GE to maintain employment at current levels for the life of the agreement. Other improvements include personal protection equipment allowances increased, expanded bereavement leave, and recall rights.

“I congratulate our membership of IAM Local 912. Their solidarity made these contract improvements possible,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “These negotiations were not easy, but the bargaining committee stood strong, did not back down and fought for a fair deal.”

“These negotiations were coordinated with our sisters and brothers from the UAW,” said IAM Director of Collective Bargaining Craig Norman and lead negotiator for the IAM. “Our unions worked together utilizing the IAM’s W3 Education Center for negotiation preparation training and the support provided from our Strategic Resources Department.  Special thank you to all the representatives involved.”

“My thanks go out to the Negotiating Committee,” said IAM District 34 Directing Business Representative Scott Rich. “They brought back an agreement worthy of the hard work and dedication of our members, and the proof is in the results.”

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