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, following two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson. The contract covers 300 workers, including 120 International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) members, and is being described as the strongest in over two decades for this workforce.
Negotiations began with non-economic proposals in early October, followed by economic talks in November. Nachimson noted that both parties quickly engaged in productive discussions. “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve,” said Nachimson.
Long-time employees expressed approval for changes such as improvements to paid time off and the removal of an alternating lump-sum system for general pay increases. These changes addressed previous concerns about lost income.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, praised the outcome: “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations,” said Martin. “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 commended the team’s efforts: “This agreement shows what workers can achieve when they stand together,” said Bryant. “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 emphasized the unity among bargaining team members, including three first-time negotiators, and acknowledged support from Derek Cearley (Southern Territory Special Representative), Taz Hurst (IAM Senior Research Economist), and Pamela Evans (Winpisinger Center). “Everyone stepped up,” said Nachimson. “This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
The newly ratified contract includes annual general wage increases of 4%, 3%, 2%, and 2% over four years; ends lump-sum wage years to ensure full compounding raises; pays all paid time off at full hourly rates; adds two personal vacation days usable as sick leave; allows workers to skip PTO during plant shutdowns without penalties; provides a $3,000 ratification bonus; increases shift differential pay, HSA contributions, 401(k) match, and safety shoe allowance; maintains insurance premiums without increases throughout the contract period; adds Veterans Day as a paid holiday; improves work schedules and production incentives; introduces Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance; and signals potential future work and capital investment at the Augusta facility.
The bargaining committee was chaired by Roseal Goss (Local 2789 President) with Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel serving as committee members.
