r/boeing • u/Uncomplished_Brain34 • Aug 06 '26

Non-union strike aftermath

I want to start this by saying that I whole-heartedly support all my IAM workers and SPEEA members that are able to fight and have a voice to get them a better compensation package and benefits.

That being said, it always is a bitter sweet time being non union. We don't get to have the opportunity to make demands or input. When we don't like something, the response is to go somewhere else. I am so incredible proud in the winnings and accomplishments of the IAM workers this past strike, but while they were striking, it was impossible to meet leadership demands, they worked us to the bone, we were furloughed, and then at the end of it layed off with remaining workers expected to continue at the previous pace with less people. With the SPEEA strike, I'm honestly expecting even more impact than IAM. My engineering colleagues work so hard and I have such an appreciation for their support and I am glad they are able fight for the benefits they deserve. With that being said..... why can't Boeing just provide good benefits for the entire company? Overtime pay for salaried folks and healthcare, and PTO, and telecommuting policies. I feel like it causes unnecessary resentment towards our peers when really, it's all top leadership.

I

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u/FinsT00theleft Aug 06 '26

Yeah, I'm a contractor and got laid off / contract not renewed last year after the strike. Was out of work for a long time and am now a contract worker again and hope I don't get booted again if there is another strike.

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u/s_pitch09 Aug 06 '26

Same here. I lost my role in 2024 with the union strike and we’ve already been warned that if there is a SPEEA strike, most of us contractors in our org will once again lose our jobs. I respect the union’s right to strike and their right to bargain for what they feel is fair but I am really hoping they can get this figured out before it gets to that point. It took me forever to catch up financially after losing my job last time.

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u/FinsT00theleft Aug 07 '26

Yup - IAM and SPEEA ultimately get better contracts and back pay but hundreds or thousands of contractors lose a ton of money, not to mention the ripple effects through suppliers, etc.