Colorado Lockheed Martin workers strike after rejecting contract offer
Around 320 union employees at Lockheed Martin’s Waterton Campus in Jefferson County went on strike on Thursday after rejecting a contract offer from the defense and aerospace company.
These workers are part of the United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America Local 766. They joined hundreds of other union members from Lockheed Martin in Orlando, Florida, who also walked out at the same time. Both groups are covered by the same agreement.
President of UAW 766, Bill Shafar, mentioned that the workers organized a rally in the morning before starting their picket line. The strike will continue with regular shifts of picketers 24/7 until an agreement is reached.
Negotiations began in March, and the union’s contract expired on April 11. Shafar clarified that the strike was not intentionally planned to coincide with May Day, which is celebrated as International Labor Day.
The majority of union members voted against the contract due to concerns about the proposed wage rate. Shafar emphasized the high cost of living in Denver and the financial struggles faced by employees on their current wages.
According to the national union, Lockheed Martin has made significant profits in recent years, with the CEO receiving a substantial salary. Shafar highlighted that some employees start as low as $15 per hour and may have to wait years to earn higher pay.
Lockheed Martin responded by stating their commitment to fair labor agreements and valuing their employees’ expertise. The company employs approximately 14,000 people in Colorado across various locations, contributing to important national security programs.
Lockheed Martin has a significant presence in Colorado, with employees involved in designing and building satellites and spacecraft for NASA and military missions.
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