BIW machinists union votes to ratify 5-year contract

Bath Iron Works employees voted to ratify a new 5-year union contract, according to a statement from the union Sunday.

International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local S6, which represents nearly 4,500 members at Bath Iron Works, said the contract includes a 17% general wage increase in the first year, and 4% raises for the following four years. 

“This agreement is about our members and the value of the work they do every single day at Bath Iron Works,” IAM Local S6 President Tim Suitter said in a statement. “Our members told us what mattered to them, they stood together throughout this process and we fought to deliver those priorities at the bargaining table. I’m incredibly proud of our negotiating committee and our entire Local S6 membership.”

In a statement, Charles Krugh, president of General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, thanked the union members for voting to ratify the contract, and said it demonstrates the company’s commitment to retaining experienced workers. 

“This historic contract is the result of constructive, good-faith negotiations,” Krugh said. “It not only provides significant wage increases, it also provides additional flexibility and long-term stability for both our employees and the company. It will help us continue the production momentum we have gained in our vital work of building ships for the U.S. Navy.”

The union said the contract includes increases to shift premiums for second and third shift employees, locked in healthcare costs, improved 401(k) contributions, safeguards to address outsourcing and greater flexibility for time off. 

The agreement also has stronger protections regarding artificial intelligence and robotics. 

“This agreement is a testament to the strength and solidarity of our members here in Maine and the hard work of their negotiating committee,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “Our members made their priorities clear, and this committee went to the table determined to deliver. Securing major economic gains and stronger contract protections without giving up hard-fought language is something every Local S6 member can be proud of.”