Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) 2782, District 9, have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement with military defense manufacturer Leonardo DRS, 30 days after the employer intimated a lockout, affecting about 285 workers.
Until Saturday, dozens of employees lined Independence Drive, holding signs and waving to drivers, many of whom honked as they passed in a show of support.
The workers were protesting what they called inadequate wage increases and “forced unsustainable increases in healthcare costs.” Union representatives noted a recently retired Leonardo DRS CEO, William J. Lynn III, received $8.25 million in total compensation — a figure 172 times greater than the average earnings of the local technicians who manufacture the company’s weapons and defense systems.
According to union officials, the ratified five-year contract secures a 10% wage increase in the first year, followed by 4% increases in the second and third years, and 5% increases in the fourth and fifth years. The step increases will yield a total compounded wage growth of more than 30% over the life of the agreement.. Members also secured protections capping annual insurance premium hikes to 5% per year, with no changes to healthcare copays.
IAM leadership credited the contract resolution to the solidarity and determination of West Plains union members who fought for a contract that recognized the value of their skills, dedication and contributions to national defense.
The local manufacturing portfolio includes the M-SHORAD counter-drone and air defense platform, battlefield surveillance technology, heavy assault bridging equipment, and fuel and water distribution systems used worldwide.
“The solidarity shown by these members throughout this process was inspiring,” IAM International President Brian Bryant said in a statement. “They stood together through challenging circumstances, and their perseverance helped secure a collective bargaining agreement that recognizes the important work they perform every day. This victory demonstrates what is possible when workers remain united.”
“The members of Local 2782 never lost sight of the power of standing together,” IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli added. “They showed what solidarity means through their resilience, determination and commitment to one another. This new contract represents more than meaningful economic gains — it lays the foundation for stronger working conditions, greater opportunities and successful negotiations in the future.”
“These workers stood together and made their voices heard,” said IAM District 9 Business Representative BJ Wear. “Through their unity and determination, they secured meaningful gains that will improve the lives of members and their families. This ratification reflects the power of workers standing together and refusing to settle for less than they deserve.”
