Boeing strike: ‘My $28-an-hour pay isn’t enough to get by’

Over 30,000 Boeing employees are currently on strike, entering their second week of protests after union leaders rejected a proposed deal. The agreement would have raised pay but required the loss of bonuses and pensions, sparking widespread discontent among workers. With negotiations stalled, many employees on the picket line in Auburn, Washington, voiced their frustrations, highlighting rising living costs and lost benefits as key reasons for the strike.

Davon Smith, 37, works as an assembler on the Boeing 777X, earning under $28 an hour. To make ends meet, he also takes a part-time job as a security guard. “That kind of keeps me afloat,” he explains, noting that his fiancée, a secretary for Seattle schools, earns more than he does. Smith, who has been at Boeing for just a year, feels that his pay doesn’t reflect the level of safety required in his role. He worries about the potential legal consequences if something goes wrong due to his work.

The tentative deal between the union and Boeing included a 25% pay increase over four years, better healthcare, 12 weeks of paid parental leave, and more input on safety and quality issues. However, the union had aimed for a 40% raise, leading to a rejection by nearly 95% of members. Long-standing grievances about the loss of pensions, which offered guaranteed retirement benefits, further fueled the anger among workers. Boeing now contributes to 401(k) plans, which are subject to market fluctuations, leaving employees vulnerable.

Mari Baker, 61, a kitter who has been with Boeing since 1996, describes the rejected offer as “a slap in the face.” She fears losing her health insurance if the strike drags on, which raises concerns about affording her medication. Boeing has remained silent on the ongoing situation, referring to previous commitments by executives to rebuild relationships with workers and seek a resolution.

The strike comes at a time when Boeing is already facing significant financial challenges and a tarnished reputation due to safety issues. New CEO Kelly Ortberg has urged workers to reconsider striking, suggesting it could jeopardize the company’s recovery. In a move to cut costs, Boeing announced the suspension of jobs for tens of thousands of employees in response to the strike.

Patrick Anderson, from the Anderson Economic Group, highlights that the strike has already resulted in over $100 million in lost wages for workers and more than $440 million in shareholder losses. “This strike doesn’t just threaten earnings; it threatens the company’s reputation at a critical time,” he warns.

On the picket line, many workers feel they have little left to lose. Kerri Foster, 47, who previously worked as a nurse, joined Boeing last year and is now struggling to pay her mortgage. “I haven’t been making enough to cover basic bills,” she explains, emphasizing her determination to strike until her pay is increased and pensions are restored. “I’m hungry already. If you can’t pay your bills while working, what’s the difference?”

Ryan Roberson, 38, brought two of his six children to the picket line, sharing that the rejected plan wouldn’t have improved wages for newer employees like himself. He vows to continue striking until entry-level workers receive a livable wage.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, representing the strikers, has issued debit cards providing $250 weekly to members as the strike continues. “That $250 will buy a lot of Top Ramen,” jokes Roberson, referring to the inexpensive noodles that many strikers may rely on.

Marc Cisneros, 29, echoed similar sentiments, stating that despite his hard work, he struggles to afford rent. He has been at Boeing for four years and is disheartened by the disparity between his contributions and compensation. “It’s dangerous work; we’re dealing with big hunks of metal flying through the sky,” he asserts. “Our names are on everything we produce, and we take pride in that.”

As the strike progresses, Boeing workers remain resolute, demanding fair wages and the reinstatement of lost benefits, underscoring the need for meaningful change within the company.