IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement. The vote took place on November 12 after two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson. The contract covers 300 workers, including 120 IAM members, and is described as the strongest agreement in more than two decades.
Negotiations started with non-economic proposals in early October and moved to economic issues in early November. Nachimson said, “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve.”
Long-term employees welcomed changes such as updates to paid time off and ending the alternating lump-sum system for general pay increases, which had previously reduced workers’ income over time.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, stated, “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations. Their solidarity and preparation delivered life-changing improvements for our members, and other negotiations with John Deere will follow their lead.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant also praised the outcome: “This agreement shows what workers can achieve when they stand together. Taking the time and effort to fix long-time issues with improvements like this is something to be very proud of. This contract reflects the true value of their labor.”
Nachimson highlighted that three committee members were first-time negotiators and acknowledged support from Derek Cearley (Southern Territory Special Representative), Taz Hurst (IAM Senior Research Economist), and Pamela Evans (Winpisinger Center). He added, “Everyone stepped up. This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
The new contract includes annual wage increases of 4%, 3%, 2%, and 2% over its term; an end to lump-sum wage years in favor of compounding raises; full hourly rate payment for all paid time off; two new personal vacation days usable as sick leave; an option to skip PTO during plant shutdowns without penalties; a $3,000 ratification bonus; increased shift differentials, HSA contributions, 401(k) match, and safety shoe allowance; no insurance premium increases through the contract period; Veterans Day as a paid holiday; improved work schedules and production incentives; Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance; and indications of future work and capital investment at the facility.
The bargaining committee consisted of Roseal Goss (Chair/Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
