Pratt & Whitney Workers Vote to Strike Amid Contract Dispute

EAST HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) – More than 3,000 Pratt & Whitney employees voted to strike early Monday morning after failing to reach an agreement during contract negotiations. Employees from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Locals 700 and 1746 confirmed the decision following a vote completed at the Oakdale Theater in Wallingford on Sunday.

The workers are responsible for building, maintaining, and testing aircraft engines for both commercial and military planes at Pratt & Whitney’s facilities in East Hartford and Middletown. Despite rainy weather, employees gathered outside the company headquarters to advocate for their rights.

The machinists expressed concerns about job security, healthcare costs, and wages. IAM leaders stated that Pratt & Whitney’s latest offer included an 18.6 percent wage increase over three years, but did not adequately address other key issues.

“We will be down in front of Pratt and Whitney letting them know what we want and why we’re there,” said Michael Lamoureaux from Machinist Local 700. “We are waiting for the negotiating committee to get back to the table with a better deal for us.”

Pratt & Whitney responded to the strike, noting that its offer was competitive and aimed at ensuring the company’s continued growth. The strike is expected to significantly impact production operations at both plants.

Increased police patrols are set for East Hartford to manage traffic and ensure safety around the picket lines.

This is not the first time Pratt & Whitney workers have gone on strike. Previous strikes occurred in 1985 and 2001 due to similar disputes. The last strike lasted for 10 days.

Connecticut political leaders have voiced their support for the striking workers. “The machinists are critical to the success of our nation’s manufacturing future,” said Governor Ned Lamont and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz. “We encourage the company and the union to reach a fair deal.”