GE Aerospace Witnesses a Strike by More Than 600 UAW Workers

In a significant development, UAW Local 647 workers at the GE Aerospace facilities in Evendale, Ohio, and Erlanger, Kentucky, have commenced a strike. The action was initiated on Thursday night, following the expiration of the current contract and the failure to reach a deal.

The Evendale plant, specialising in the production of marine and industrial engines, is at the heart of this labour dispute. The strike is centred around key issues such as job security, healthcare costs, and time off.

UAW Local 647 President Brian Strunk has stated that the workers are demanding a decent healthcare plan and a secure future. On the other hand, UAW President Shawn Fain, in a negotiations update livestream, attributed the strike to GE Aerospace's offering of minimal increases that are insufficient for UAW members.

In a recent turn of events, GE Aerospace has extended an offer to its employees, averaging approximately $29,000 over a three-year contract. However, according to the UAW, this offer would increase health care costs for employees by 36% over four years.

In response to the strike, GE Aerospace has expressed its disappointment that UAW leaders sent employees on strike without allowing them the opportunity to review and vote on the offer. The company encourages its employees to ask for the chance to vote on the company's best offer.

The CEO of GE Aerospace, H. Lawrence Culp Jr., or Larry Culp, has seen a 985% increase in his salary. The Erlanger site, functioning as a distribution center, is also affected by the strike.

In the recent weeks, both sites have held mass plant solidarity walks every Wednesday during bargaining, showing their support for a fair contract. The situation is ongoing, and both parties are hopeful for a resolution that addresses the concerns of the workers and maintains the viability of the company.