Grand Lodge Special Representative Bobby Martinez stands alongside IAM members at L-3 Vertex in Yuma, who just ratified their first contract.
A first contract was inked September 17 in Yuma, Arizona for new IAM members working at L-3 Vertex Aerospace, LLC. The group, which started out with nine and is growing rapidly, joined the IAM in early summer in hopes of better terms under the Service Contract Act.
Highlights of the agreement include average wage increases of $2.15 per hour the first year, followed by 3.75% and 3.5% general wage increases in the second two years, respectively. Health care bi-weekly contributions were reduced for families and the health and welfare allowance was sharply increased, with excess contributions allotted to a 401K plan with a $600/year employer match. Sick leave, vacation, holidays, bereavement, shift premiums and overtime pay were also addressed, along with other issues.
"Thanks to GLSR Bobby Martinez and Aerospace Coordinator Frank Santos for their hard work," remarked Western Territory GVP Lee Pearson. "This is a great first contract and they did a tremendous job of accomplishing it before the Government Reimbursable date occurred."
Members of Local Lodge 2282, these highly-skilled workers perform aircraft maintenance and mechanical services and inspection for US Customs and Border Control.
