Boeing Defense said Thursday it will begin hiring permanent replacement workers for striking members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers in the St. Louis area, according to Reuters. The strike began on August 4th after 3,200 IAM District 837 members voted to reject Boeing’s four-year contract offer. The offer included a 20% wage increase, more vacation and sick leave, and a $5,000 ratification bonus. Union leaders criticized Boeing’s move, urging the company to resume talks instead of replacing “dedicated, generational and skilled” workers. Boeing said production has slowed on some programs but vowed to keep supporting customers. The company is holding a job fair on September 16 and will require new hires to undergo the same training and certifications as current employees.
