IAM Kicks Off Lockheed Contract Talks
February 23, 2006
Quick links+
February 23, 2006 – Job security, affordable healthcare and a secure retirement are among the top concerns for nearly 4,400 manufacturing and aircraft assembly workers who are geared up for contract talks at the Ft. Worth, TX unit of Lockheed-Martin Aeronautics Co.
IP Tom Buffenbarger delivered the opening statement on behalf of IAM members at Lockheed who build the F-16 and the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. “We intend to protect our members’ healthcare benefits, their pensions and make sure their jobs are secure,” declared Buffenbarger at the initial meeting with Lockheed representatives this week.
The IP was joined by Headquarters’ GVP Bob Thayer, Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez, Aerospace Coordinator John Crowdis, District 776 President Pat Lane, District 776 Business Reps and the entire IAM District 776 negotiating committee.
“Lockheed Martin has strong sales, record profits and expects to continue that trend,” said GVP Thayer. “Our members have every right to expect a contract that reflects the success the company is now enjoying.”
The IAM-Lockheed negotiators will attempt to broker three separate contracts simultaneously; one for Production workers, one for Firemen and another for Nurses working at the Ft. Worth facility. The current agreements expires on April 9, 2006.
