The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has expressed support for Missouri Senator Josh Hawley after he questioned Boeing’s chief labor counsel, Scott Mayer, regarding the ongoing strike involving 3,200 IAM District 837 members in St. Louis. The strike has now entered its ninth week.
During a hearing, Senator Hawley criticized the disparity between the compensation of Boeing’s CEO and the situation faced by striking workers. “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.”
Senator Hawley has previously spoken in support of IAM District 837 members. In early September, he was quoted by Missourinet emphasizing the importance of Boeing’s role in Missouri and urging management to resolve the dispute. “Management here needs to suck it up and get this thing over with,” said Hawley. “That company is so important to our state, the jobs that it provides, the great things that it produces.”
Boeing’s Defense, Space & Security unit reported $6.6 billion in revenue for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, representing a 10% increase compared to the previous year. Despite this financial growth, contract negotiations have stalled as IAM District 837 members have rejected multiple proposals from Boeing.
Talks between IAM District 837 and Boeing are continuing with oversight from a federal mediator.
IAM International President Brian Bryant commented on the negotiations: “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 about 600,000 active and retired members across North America working in sectors such as aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, among others.
