Members of a recently organized Qantas Airways workforce from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) received IAM field training in preparation for first contract negotiations with the carrier, as well as toured the California campus of the IAM’s favorite charity, Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC).
Approximately 150 Qantas Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) voted to join the IAM in April. Workers said they wanted a seat at the table to negotiate a legally binding contract they believe will be the best way to ensure that they are recognized appropriately for the value they create for Australia’s largest airline.
“The IAM Air Transport Territory will continue to provide every resource necessary to Qantas Airways workers in their mission toward justice on the job,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen.
The training was led by Winpisinger Center Assistant Director Joe Gruber, Air Transport Territory Grand Lodge Representative Sean Ryan, and District 142 General Chair Mark Strength.
“The Qantas negotiation team is aware of the daunting task we have in negotiating our very first contract for our members and their families,” said Qantas AME and negotiating committee member Edward Berg. “IAM trainers have helped to make it less daunting and more of a positive reality concerning what we can accomplish in our bargaining.”
The company has set dates for negotiations starting in July, and has committed to a schedule that should result in a first union contract for these new Machinists.
“The four-day training was well organized,” said Saneel Kumar, also a Qantas AME and negotiating committee member. “The trainer, Brother Gruber, had a vast amount of expertise to guide us step by step so that we can learn a lot in a short amount of time.”
The group also toured GDA | TLC’s Sylmar, Calif., campus.
“Thank you to Guide Dogs of America and your beautiful facility for giving us a tour of the amazing work that you do,” said Miguel Maldonado, a Qantas AME and negotiating committee member.