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SOUTH CHARLESTON, W. Va.– Approximately 77 members of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 598 (District 54) at Dow Chemical in South Charleston have voted to ratify an improved contract offer and end their strike at the employer.
On Oct. 21, IAM Local 598 members went on strike for fair wages and work-life balance. IAM International President Brian Bryant recently visited striking members, and members held a rally with the West Virginia AFL-CIO.
“Congratulations to the membership of IAM Local 598 for standing strong for the contract they deserve,” said IAM District 54 President and Directing Business Representative T. Dean Wright Jr. “Thanks to their solidarity, we have won a victory for our members, their families and the entire community. I would like to thank the District 54 staff, Local 598 officers, our members and their families, the South Charleston community, and International President Brian Bryant for all of their support.”
Highlights of the improved agreement include:
· General wage increase from 15.91% up to 20.28% over the life of the agreement.
· New employees will reach top rate in 36 months or sooner.
· The majority of the bargaining unit will exceed $40 per hour for their base salary, and has a defined path to making top rate or certification.
· 15% of total yearly salary contribution to 401(k) savings plan.
· Increases to safety, including Emergency Squad Pay (ESP) of $2,700 per year.
· Secured seniority language.
· Secured hours of work language, improving overtime practices and distribution for work-life balance.
· Increased shift premiums up to 200%.
· Gained paid family illness leave.
· Contributions to FSA dependent care reimbursement account.
· Contributions to childcare annually.
“Our Local 598 members have fought hard and won an exceptional contract that will benefit them for years to come,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “This contract delivers significant and lasting improvements to their wages, benefits, and quality of life and sets a new benchmark for our members in the Eastern Territory.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.
“The unwavering solidarity of IAM Local 598 members at Dow Chemical in South Charleston was crucial in securing this landmark victory,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “This contract is a testament to their collective power, delivering substantial gains in wages, benefits, and work-life balance. It was an honor to walk the picket line with them.”
