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del.icio.usBoeing wants to separate Wichita Machinists' contract from others
BY PHYLLIS JACOBS GRIEKSPOOR
The Wichita Eagle
Boeing Wichita will make another attempt to separate the Wichita labor contract from the overall contract that currently covers Machinists in Wichita, Puget Sound and Portland.
Scott Strode, vice president and general manager of Boeing Wichita, said the initial exchange today was "respectful" on both sides.
"The IAM passed us their proposal, which we can now evaluate, and we passed them our framework for discussion, highlighting the things the company thinks are important," Strode said.
He said the discussion of separating the contracts would be at the top of a long list, which also includes a proposed change in the retirement plan, health benefits, work rules and other topics.
"The Wichita operation is unique," Strode said. "It is a different market and a different competitive situation."
At the same time, he said, Boeing's workers are the best in the industry and the company wants to reward their skill level.
The contract covers about 750 workers in Wichita. The contract expires Sept. 2.
