Boeing workers reject contract, authorize strike

Boeing's workforce has voted to reject a proposed contract and authorize a strike, intensifying the pressure on the aerospace giant as it grapples with production and safety issues. The Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) reported that 17,000 of its members at Boeing facilities in Washington and surrounding states voted against the terms, with 64% of the professional unit and nearly 72% of the technical unit rejecting the offer.

The professional unit, representing around 13,000 engineers and scientists, and the technical unit, comprising about 4,000 analysts, technicians, planners, and specialists, both saw strike authorization backed by over 88% and nearly 90% support, respectively. The union intends to restart negotiations with Boeing, though it remains ready to call for a work stoppage.

A strike would only commence once the existing contract lapses on October 6. Boeing and SPEEA commenced contract negotiations on July 1, marking the initial full bargaining cycle between the two entities in nearly 14 years. The talks culminate in two collective bargaining agreements for SPEEA's two largest units. The union conducted a survey among members to determine the improvements required for contract acceptance, with findings to be released after the survey closes at 3 p.m. Pacific Time on Wednesday, August 26.

The union's concerns included job relocation out of state, quality and safety issues, and stagnant salaries that do not keep pace with inflation and the competitive aerospace job market.