Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 2771 at M1 Support Services in Wichita Falls, Texas, have ratified a new four-year contract, according to a Mar. 31 announcement from the union. The agreement covers approximately 550 workers who support the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Program (ENJJPT) at Sheppard Air Force Base.
The contract includes pay increases totaling more than 22 percent over its term and locks in employee and family healthcare contributions. Union officials say these changes are intended to address concerns about affordability and maintain previous gains in contract language.
“Our members wanted to keep up with the affordability crisis, and keep the contract language gains they have won over the years,” said IAM District 776 Chief of Staff Cory Bennett. “Our negotiating committee delivered for the members and we improved the contract language in key spots. That led to the strong ratification vote.”
Additional provisions include stronger language on scope of work and work rules, such as requiring that IAM members be paid if management cancels overtime shifts after employees have been notified.
“They deserve this strong contract that reflects the value of the work they do,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “Solidarity like this brings our members the job security needed for four more years of stability on this contract.”
IAM Local 2771 members perform flight operations and maintenance on T-6 Texan and T-38 Talon aircraft as part of training efforts for NATO pilots through ENJJPT, which graduates around 200 pilots and 55 instructor pilots each year.
