Pratt & Whitney Machinists Vote to Strike Over Contract Disputes

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — More than 3,000 workers at Pratt & Whitney are set to go on strike starting at midnight on Monday after rejecting the company’s latest contract offer. Union officials from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced the decision following a vote held at the Oakdale Theatre in Wallingford, Connecticut.

The machinists cited concerns over inadequate wage increases, reduced retirement benefits, rising health insurance costs, and a lack of job security as reasons for their actions. Wayne McCarthy, president of IAM Local 700, stated, “For months, we have negotiated in good faith with Pratt & Whitney in hopes of reaching a fair contract that reflects the billions in profits our members make for the company.”

Howie Huestis, president of IAM Local 1746, emphasized the strike’s importance, saying, “This strike is about dignity, respect, job security, and protecting middle-class jobs in Connecticut.” The strike vote was overwhelmingly supported, with approximately 77% in favor of striking.

The company released a statement asserting that their offer competes favorably within the industry. “Our message to union leaders throughout this thoughtful process has been simple: higher pay, better retirement savings, more days off, and more flexibility,” a spokesperson said.

Negotiations between Pratt & Whitney and the union have been contentious. Despite significant profit margins, workers feel their compensation has not kept pace with rising costs in living and inflation. Michael Lamoureux, head of the strike committee for Local 700, conveyed the urgency of the situation, stating, “This means that we are serious about what we want from the company and what we think is fair.”

The strike will involve union members picketing 24/7 at the East Hartford and Middletown plants, impacting the production and testing of aircraft engines, both for commercial and military use. This will be the first strike involving Pratt & Whitney employees since 2001.

Support for the workers has echoed through Connecticut’s political sphere. Governor Ned Lamont and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz called for both sides to reach a fair and negotiated agreement. Senator Richard Blumenthal and Representatives John Larson and Rosa DeLauro expressed their solidarity with the striking machinists, highlighting the essential role these workers play in national defense and the Connecticut economy.