Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 2771 at M1 Support Services in Wichita Falls, Texas, have ratified a new four-year contract, according to a Mar. 31 announcement. The agreement covers approximately 550 workers who support the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Program (ENJJPT) at Sheppard Air Force Base.
The ENJJPT is described as the only multinationally manned and managed flying training program dedicated to producing combat pilots for NATO. Each year, about 200 pilots and 55 instructor pilots graduate from its 55-week course.
The newly approved contract provides pay increases totaling more than 22 percent over four years. It also secures employee and family healthcare contributions and includes stronger language regarding scope of work and work rules. One notable provision states that IAM members will be compensated if management cancels overtime shifts after notifying employees.
“Our members wanted to keep up with the affordability crisis, and keep the contract language gains they have won over the years,” said IAM District 776 Chief of Staff Cory Bennett. “Our negotiating committee delivered for the members and we improved the contract language in key spots. That led to the strong ratification vote.” Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, said: “They deserve this strong contract that reflects the value of the work they do. Solidarity like this brings our members the job security needed for four more years of stability on this contract.”
IAM Local 2771 members perform flight operations and maintenance on T-6 Texan and T-38 Talon aircraft used in training future NATO pilots—a mission supporting both United States Air Force’s 82nd Training Wing and allied nations.
