ST. LOUIS — The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) has commended Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) for his recent questioning of Boeing’s chief labor counsel, Scott Mayer, regarding the ongoing labor dispute with 3,200 IAM District 837 members in St. Louis who have been on strike for nine weeks.
During a Capitol Hill hearing, Hawley challenged Boeing’s compensation practices in light of the strike. “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.”
This is not the first time Senator Hawley has spoken out in support of the striking workers. In September, he told Missourinet that Boeing should take responsibility and 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 division saw its revenue rise by 10% year over year in the second quarter of fiscal 2025, reaching $6.6 billion. Despite this financial performance, IAM District 837 members have repeatedly rejected contract offers from Boeing because they do not meet what union leaders describe as basic standards of fairness and dignity.
Negotiations between IAM District 837 and Boeing are continuing with oversight from a federal mediator.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant called on Boeing to change its approach at the bargaining table. “We’re tired of Boeing hiding behind posturing and PR spin,” said Bryant. “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 Union represents about 600,000 active and retired workers across North America in industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroads, transit systems, healthcare services and automotive manufacturing.
