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| The IAM and the United Launch Alliance opened negotiations for a new contract covering 830 workers at Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA, Local Lodge 2786; Decatur, AL, Local Lodge 44 and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL, Local Lodge 610. |
As the IAM opened negotiations with United Launch Alliance (ULA) in Huntsville, AL, ULA announced the new Next Generation Launch System (NGLS) will be built in the IAM-represented facility at Decatur, AL. ULA CEO Tory Bruno said that the rocket would be 100% American made.
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| At the start of negotiations, the United Launch Alliance announced the next generation Vulcan rocket that will be 100 percent American made. |
The announcement means the Decatur factory and workforce will be expanding. “This is our rocket factory, NGLS is coming here, and when it unlocks even greater opportunity for us, our team is going to expand and that’s going to occur right here in Decatur,” said Bruno.
Also announced was the name of the new rocket, Vulcan, which was decided by an online vote open to all Americans.
The negotiations with ULA cover 830 workers at Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA, Local 2786; Decatur, AL, Local 44 and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL, Local 610. The contract expires May 3rd.
“Our members are skilled professionals with a great record on safety and productivity,” said Aerospace Coordinator Terry Smith, who is leading the negotiations for the IAM. “The workforce is the reason for the past success of these programs, and we look forward to being part of the future for our space program. We will endeavor to secure jobs for that future.”
