Nevada’s Nellis AFB Workers Vote for IAM

More than 250 Service Contract workers who provide valuable support for the U.S. Air Force at Nellis AFB near Las Vegas, NV, recently voted overwhelmingly for IAM representation, citing the Machinists’ great track record in Service Contract agreements.

“This is a great win for the IAM,” said Western Territory GVP Gary Allen. “The teamwork between our staff in the Western Territory and the IAM Aerospace Department, was exemplary. I am pleased to know that our hard work has developed a first-quality reputation amongst Service Contract workers. I applaud the efforts of everyone involved, and welcome our new members into the IAM family. This was a great job by everyone involved.” 

Grand Lodge Representatives Bud Michel and Don Gresham led the campaign, with GLR Charles Toby supporting the effort by handling the National Labor Relations Board work for the Western Territory. The representation election was held, and the first contracts were negotiated and ratified, all in less than three months after the initial petitions were filed. 

Highlights of the new agreement include wage increases of 4.0 percent in February 2010, and 3.5 percent in 2011 and 2012. The wage rates are in addition to the Area Wage Determination, which was rolled into employee pay rates before the negotiated increases were applied. Workers also received an increase in the Medical Benefit Allotment, as well as an option to take medical benefit dollars in their paycheck instead of applying it toward medical coverage.

The new contract also provides an improved vacation schedule, better sick leave terms and improved overtime rules.