WHEELING, WV, AUGUST 20, 2018; – IAM Members of Local 818, District 54 employed at Tecnocap in Wheeling, WV ratified a new three year deal over the weekend, ending the 130 day strike. The strike came after members voted unanimously to reject the contract, and to strike the employer.
The new accord features wage increases, and an increase of $0.30 into the pension plan. Wage increases in the first year of $1.18 cents per hour up to $1.94, and 0.75 for every member during the second, and third years. Negotiators were successful in obtaining improved vacation benefits, and just as important for these members, adding job security language for the life of the agreement for all members. Management also agree to the removal of all permanent replacement workers.
“Congratulations go to our members, they realized that job security language is an important protection for working families, and they proudly held the line for 130 days,” said IAM District 54 President and Directing Business Representative T. Dean Wright, Jr. “Our negotiating committee did an outstanding job by standing firm, fighting for justice, respect and dignity on the job. We were able to return to work with our heads held high; with honor.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America, representing 600,000 active and retired members throughout a broad spectrum of industries. District Lodge 54 is headquartered in Columbus, OH and represents 14,000 members in Ohio, West Virginia and Northeastern Indiana.
For more information follow District Lodge 54 at @DistrictLodge54 or visit www.iamdistrict54.com