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On Sept. 15, 2024 the IAM Organizing Department helped the workers of SAAB Aerospace claim victory in their union election. Organizing Department Grand Lodge Representative Billy Anderson spearheaded the campaign. The SAAB Aerospace campaign in West Lafayette, Ind., concluded with 102 Hoosiers voting in overwhelming support of the IAM.
“I couldn’t be prouder and more excited for our newest IAM members from Saab Aerospace,” said Anderson. “Their courage and commitment to unionize their shop is reflective of the same passion and skills that they provide in service to our nation’s defense.”
Credit: Saab, Inc.
As the Swedish company expands into North America, our new brothers, sisters, and siblings will continue to provide excellent work at the advanced manufacturing and production facility. Saab, widely known for their now discontinued sports car lineup, has expanded into defense manufacturing. Saab recently received a $101 million order from Boeing to produce the T-7A aft fuselage system in West Lafayette. The facility, opened in 2021, is expected to expand to up to 300 employees by 2027.
“They deserve the very best that an IAM contract can offer,” said Anderson. “This was a team effort and I want to thank the workers, the IAM Midwest Territory and the IAM Organizing Department working together to make this happen.”
“After 36 years with the IAM, wins like these never get old,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “We’re proud that over the past five years we’ve organized more workers than any other AFL-CIO union. Wins like these will help ensure that trend continues for another five years and beyond.”
“If new members are the lifeblood of any union, then great organizers like Billy Anderson are our heart,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “We welcome each of these 102 workers into their union, and we’re excited to see how they advance our shared mission”
The 70-23 vote win follows a close loss last year. After the unit size doubled, Anderson doubled down, and recommitted himself to organizing the unit. The win goes to show that while conditions change, the persuasive message of union security, great benefits, and collective power can still win the day.
