The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has expressed support for Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) after he questioned Boeing’s chief labor counsel, Scott Mayer, about the company’s stance in ongoing contract negotiations with 3,200 IAM District 837 members. The workers have been on strike in St. Louis for nine weeks.
During a Capitol Hill exchange, Hawley criticized Boeing’s executive compensation while union members remain off the job without healthcare. “With 3,000 plus residents of my state on strike, unable to work, unable to get healthcare while your CEO is getting paid 30-some million dollars,” said Hawley. “Fairness may be elusive, but that doesn’t look like fairness to me.”
Hawley has previously voiced his support for the striking workers. In early September, he told Missourinet: “Management here needs to suck it up and get this thing over with. That company is so important to our state, the jobs that it provides, the great things that it produces.”
Boeing’s Defense, Space & Security division reported $6.6 billion in revenue for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025—a 10% increase compared to last year—but union representatives say recent contract proposals do not meet their expectations regarding fairness and dignity.
Negotiations between IAM District 837 and Boeing are continuing under federal mediation.
IAM International President Brian Bryant stated: “We’re tired of Boeing hiding behind posturing and PR spin. Our members build the jets and defense systems that keep this nation safe, and they deserve a deal that reflects their sacrifice, expertise and value. Boeing’s repeated lowball proposals are a slap in the face to the men and women who power their bottom line. The time for grandstanding is over. Negotiate in good faith now, Boeing.”
The IAM represents around 600,000 active and retired members across North America in sectors including aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railways, transit systems, healthcare services, automotive manufacturing and other industries.
