IAM Local 2789 members working at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement. The contract, approved on November 12 after two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson, covers about 300 workers, including 120 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). Union officials describe it as the strongest contract for this workforce in more than two decades.
Negotiations began with non-economic issues in early October and moved to economic topics in early November. Nachimson said both sides were able to engage in productive discussions. “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve,” said Nachimson.
Long-time employees highlighted improvements such as changes to paid time off and ending the alternating lump-sum system for general pay increases, which had previously resulted in lost income over time.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, praised the committee’s work: “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations,” said Martin. “Their solidarity and preparation delivered life-changing improvements for our members, and other negotiations with John Deere will follow their lead.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant also commended those involved: “This agreement shows what workers can achieve when they stand together,” said Bryant. “Taking the time and effort to fix long-time issues with improvements like this is something to be very proud of. This contract reflects the true value of their labor.”
Nachimson noted that three members of the bargaining team were first-time negotiators and thanked Derek Cearley (Southern Territory Special Representative), Taz Hurst (IAM Senior Research Economist), and Pamela Evans from IAM’s Winpisinger Center for their support. “Everyone stepped up,” he said. “This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
Key provisions include annual general wage increases over four years (4%, 3%, 2%, then 2%), elimination of lump-sum wage years so raises are fully compounded, full hourly rate paid for all paid time off instead of a percentage formula, two new personal vacation days that function as sick leave, an option to skip PTO during plant shutdowns without penalty, a $3,000 ratification bonus, increased shift differential pay, higher HSA contributions and 401(k) match rates, improved safety shoe allowance, no insurance premium increases throughout the contract term, Veterans Day added as a paid holiday, better work schedules and production incentives, access to Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance plans, and signs that future work or capital investment may come to the facility.
The bargaining committee included Roseal Goss (Chair/Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
