Strike Vote Sends Clear Message to Lockheed Martin

Members of IAM District 776 in Ft. Worth, TX send a clear message to Lockheed Martin by voting overwhelmingly for a strike authorization leading up to the July 10 contract expiration.

IAM District 776 members sent a strong message to Lockheed Martin negotiators by overwhelmingly voting to authorize a strike if an acceptable agreement can’t be reached. The contract covering nearly 2,600 members in Fort Worth, TX is set to expire July 10, with a vote set to consider the company’s last, best and final offer on July 9.

More than 90 percent of members voted to authorize a strike. If the deal isn’t accepted, the members will then decide to hit the picket line.

“They have sent a strong, clear and unmistakable message,” said International President Bob Martinez.

Machinists have been sending a strong message since the negotiations opened in March.

“This vote is part of the democracy that defines our organization,” continued Martinez. “It’s a vital part of the collective bargaining process. There may only be ‘x’ number of members at the bargaining table, but with this strong message, they multiply their power by a factor of nearly 3,000.”

“The members of District 776 in Fort Worth exemplify the title ‘Fighting Machinists’,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Mark Blondin. “They know that the power of our union will ensure justice on the job and a better contract. They fought the reset, and they haven’t stopped fighting for their rights in the factory. They expect and deserve a fair contract and we will do whatever it takes to secure it.”

In 2012, District 776 voted to go on strike and stayed out for 10 weeks, winning an improved contract with higher wages, lump sum bonuses, health care cost containment and health care options.

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