The strike at Pratt & Whitney in Connecticut is over, and approximately 3,000 union members will soon be returning to work at plants in East Hartford and Middletown, where they produce jet aircraft engines.
On May 27, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Locals 700 and 1746, soundly ratified a new contract, with 74.1% voting yes.
“This contract recognizes the skill and dedication of our workforce by keeping them among the highest compensated in their field, while ensuring the company is well-positioned for the future,” Pratt & Whitney said in a statement, following the ratification.
Tuesday’s vote stands in stark contrast to what occurred on May 4, when the union overwhelmingly rejected what was then described by the aerospace supplier as its “final” offer. Workers at that time spurned a proposed three-year contract, with 80% voting it down. In rejecting the proposal, the union cited inadequate attention to concerns around wages, job security and retirement.
Union members had been on strike since the previous agreement concluded in early May.
Labor contract negotiations between Pratt & Whitney and the union resumed May 22 and seemingly progressed quickly, going to a vote five days later.
The revised contract approved by the IAM locals lengthens the agreement to four years, versus the three years previously proposed. Per the IAM, the new contract includes a 6% wage increase in the first year, with annual general wage increases of 3.5%, 3% and 3%; more flexible work week options; increased payment amounts to the pension plan; and a commitment to continue operations in the East Hartford and Middletown facilities through 2029.
“Our committee worked tirelessly to ensure our members’ priorities were heard, and this agreement is a direct result of that determination,” said IAM Union District 26 Directing Business Representative Jeff Santini in a statement.
The new contract takes effect May 28.
