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The IAM Local 389 negotiating team recently completed contract negotiation preparation training at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center, preparing for upcoming bargaining with General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego.
The agreement covers more than 800 workers who build critical auxiliary and support ships for the U.S. Navy, as well as oil tankers and dry-cargo carriers for commercial markets. Their work plays a vital role in supporting U.S. national defense and maintaining essential maritime capabilities.
The negotiations prep class provided the negotiating team with strategic training and tools to help them navigate the bargaining process and fight for a strong contract that reflects the value of IAM Union members’ work.
“IAM Union members at NASSCO build some of the most important vessels supporting our nation’s defense and maritime infrastructure, and they deserve a contract that reflects the skill, dedication, and pride they bring to the job every day,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “When our members are respected and supported on the job, it strengthens not only their families and communities, but the critical industries that rely on their expertise.”
“The company will come to the table with its priorities, and we’ll come with ours — the voices of the workers who make the shipyard run,” said IAM District 947 President/Directing Business Representative Sal Vasquez. “The negotiating committee is not just preparing for meetings – they are preparing to fight for a contract that delivers real gains.”
“Our members are highly skilled shipbuilders who take tremendous pride in the work they do every day,” said IAM District 947 Business Representative William Corona. “This preparation gives the negotiating committee the tools and confidence to negotiate effectively and push for the wages, benefits, and contract improvements our members deserve.”
As negotiations approach, the IAM Local 389 members at NASSCO are focused on securing better wages, stronger benefits, and contract improvements that recognize the contributions of the workforce that helps power America’s shipbuilding industry.
Beyond the bargaining table, IAM members at NASSCO have been actively focused on strengthening worker engagement and increasing union density inside the shipyard. While California is not a so-called “right-to-work” state, General Dynamics NASSCO operates as an open shop, making member engagement and organizing a constant priority.
IAM members regularly hold meetings, activities, and outreach efforts to connect with workers, build solidarity, and ensure members understand the power of collective action. Recognizing the shop’s diversity — including the large number of Spanish-speaking workers — IAM members recently launched a Spanish-language podcast to better connect with members and expand union participation.
