About 2,600 employees returned to work at Pratt & Whitney today under a revamped union contract that provides annual 2.5 percent wage increases over the next 5 1/2 years and pension changes.
Members of Locals 700 and 1746, District 26 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) on Sunday ratified the agreement, which is in effect through May 5, 2022.
The East Hartford-based aerospace company, a division of Farmington-based United Technologies Corp., is providing “enhanced” pension benefits for current employees, while new employees will be eligible for a defined contribution retirement benefit, said Pratt Spokesman Ray Hernandez. He did not elaborate on the enhancements. A union representative could not be immediately reached for comment.
Employees will continue transitioning to medical plans with health savings accounts over the life of the contract, Hernandez said.
The company’s lead negotiator, Terry Nolan, vice president, employee and labor relations, noted: “This contract rewards our employees for their skill, dedication and hard work, while also positioning the company for long-term success.”
Pratt is focused on meeting its delivery commitments, the company has said, despite recent delays and glitches with its jet engine production objectives.
