Members of IAM Local 21 and 1115, on strike at heating and air conditioner-maker Trane Co. in La Cross, WI, gather to vote on a new four-year contract proposal.
Members of IAM Local 21 and 1115 have ratified a new four-year contract with heating and air conditioner-maker Trane Co. Wednesday, bringing to end a four-day strike in La Crosse, WI.
Thanks to the resolve and solidarity of the nearly 500 production, maintenance and tool and die makers, the IAM members were able to secure significant improvements to the initial agreement. Those improvements include wage increases throughout the term of the contract, perfect attendance bonuses, and vacation and overtime language that strikes a better balance between work and family life.
“Thank you and congratulations to the members of IAM Local 21 and 1115 for your tenacity and strength,” said IAM District 66 Directing Business Representative Neil Kamrowski. “By laying down your tools and taking a stance, we improved on a significant number of key issues you indicated were important to you and your family. A special thank you to the Bargaining Committee for all the hours and hard work you’ve put into this process from start to finish. And thank you to the Midwest Territory, Grand Lodge Representative Rick Mickschl who was also on-hand throughout negotiations, and Communications Representative LaToya Egwuekwe-Smith who allowed us to better communicate with our members throughout this whole process. The support from our other non-IAM and IAM brothers and sisters was very positive, as well as the support we received from the public.”
“Congratulations to the members of IAM Local 21 and 1115, Directing Business Representative Neil Kamrowski and the entire Bargaining Committee,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Philip J. Gruber. “Today you’ve shown other workers what happens when workers unite and fight for what they rightfully deserve. In a world driven by Big Business and Big Money, nothing is given to workers willingly. You must fight for it. That fight starts and ends with unions. On behalf of our great union and working families everywhere, thank you and congratulations on a job well done.”
