Union workers at Pratt & Whitney have voted to ratify a new, four-year collective bargaining agreement with the East Hartford jet-engine maker, bringing to an end a three-week strike.
Some 74% of 3,000 members of IAM Union Local 1746 and Local 700 voted in favor of the contract.
The machinists will return to work Wednesday, after the first strike the company has seen in Connecticut in more than 20 years.
The union says the new agreement addresses key concerns surrounding wage growth, retirement security and job stability, including a commitment to continued manufacturing and maintenance operations in East Hartford and Middletown facilities through 2029.
One of the biggest sticking points in the labor dispute was over concerns that the company might look to move work out of Connecticut in coming years.
There are also assurances about involuntary layoffs, and job protections in specific programs.
Wages will increase 6% in the first year, with future year increases at 3.5% and 3%.
There’s an increase in pension payment amounts from $94 to $113, effective June 1, and new options for retirees to receive their pension as a lump sum or while still employed.
“We are proud of what was achieved at the table and even prouder of the solidarity shown by our membership throughout this process.” said IAM Union District 26 Directing Business Representative Jeff Santini.
Pratt & Whitney has also welcomed the settlement.
“This is the outcome everyone was working towards – a contract that recognizes the skill and dedication of our workforce by keeping them among the highest compensated in their field, while ensuring Pratt & Whitney is well positioned to secure jobs and opportunity for years to come,” a company spokesperson said in a statement.
