Lab workers at Tempus AI, a precision medicine company in Chicago, have formed a union with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), marking a significant development in labor organizing within the biotech industry.
Chris Tucker and Geny Ulloa, both IAM Midwest Territory International Representatives, described the campaign as unique from its inception. “They interviewed us,” said Tucker. “They were interviewing unions and we were one of the candidates that they were looking at to form their union.”
The lab workers sought stronger safety standards, improved work-life balance, competitive pay and benefits, and greater equity and transparency from their employer. William “Bill” LePinske, IAM Midwest Territory Coordinator, noted: “They are at the forefront of technology, using AI to study diseased cells to improve cancer care. Yet, they believe that their work should not come at the expense of their rights and wellbeing. Their union will set a new standard for what workers can expect and demand in the biotech industry.”
Many Tempus AI employees hold advanced degrees and conducted thorough research before selecting IAM as their representative. Lab worker Anson Poe explained: “We landed on the Machinists because they had experience with tech, they had experience with healthcare, and the reps I talked to were very responsive.” Tucker added: “They chose the IAM because we were the most responsive. When they reached out to us, we got back to them right away… We gave them the information and waited for them to come back to us.”
The process involved extensive mutual education between organizers and workers. According to Poe: “I just saw management never listening to their good ideas, and I wanted to make them listen.” Tucker remarked: “They needed our help. They know their field and workplace, and we know how to build a union. We came together, and they made this union their own.”
The organizing committee engaged colleagues through regular virtual meetings over two years without missing any sessions. They also developed an identity—Tempus Unio—with a Latin name reflecting scientific tradition.
Tucker observed: “They educated themselves… They knew their rights…and they weren’t afraid of the typical union-busting antics that companies do.” He also described strong solidarity among members during challenging moments.
In March 2024, Tempus Unio became one of the first unions in biotech when 443 lab workers voted for IAM representation under Local H1—the first healthcare unit chartered by IAM Midwest Territory.
Ulloa highlighted broader implications: “What this group means to us is they have put us in a position where we are ready to take on any sector… Not only the fact that we were able to be successful but it was something new to us and we were able to adapt.”
Negotiations for a first contract began with LePinske as lead negotiator. He said: “We spent a lot of time in preparation… On both sides of the table it wasn’t about winning or losing; it was about solving problems.”
On April 24, 2025—just over a year after certification—their first contract took effect. The agreement covers core issues such as work–life balance; pay increases between 10%–12.5% over three years (with merit-based additions); retroactive wage increases from February 24; wage protection clauses; annual stock grants; formation of a safety committee; grievance procedures; arbitration processes; and improved paid time off rules.
Tucker commended member involvement throughout negotiations: “We got a first contract in only eight bargaining sessions… They spent a lot of their own time…to create terms that don’t just benefit themselves but benefit the whole group.” Ulloa added: “Securing the first contract without any sort of issues has sent a strong message throughout the labor movement…”
The new local is called “Next Generation Local H1.” LePinske explained its significance: “The name is symbolic of their young energy coming into the space… It’s a reflection of the work they do…and also signifies what they were trying to accomplish with their local union.”
