Representatives from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) recently gathered at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center to prepare for upcoming contract negotiations with GE Appliances, which is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. The Joint Bargaining Committee (JBC) Master Agreement covers unionized Service Technicians from IAM, IBEW, United Association (UA), and United Electrical Workers (UE) who work out of service vans across the country.
The group participated in a Negotiation Preparation Program that included several days of training focused on strategic planning, research analysis, and coordinated bargaining among multiple unions. The program aimed to ensure that JBC unions approach negotiations unified and well-informed to secure favorable contracts for their members.
During the sessions, participants reviewed contract language, developed proposals, conducted costing exercises, and planned communications. There was a particular focus on member engagement so that bargaining priorities reflect concerns from those working directly in the field.
Committees collaborated across different locals to identify shared challenges and exchange best practices. Their efforts centered on protecting wages and benefits while also seeking to improve job security and workplace protections through coordinated strategies addressing key issues for JBC families.
“This training gives our negotiating committees the tools and confidence they need to fight for the best possible agreement,” said IAM Union Collective Bargaining Director Craig Norman. “Preparation is power, and when we walk into negotiations, we do so with a clear strategy and the full strength of our membership behind us.”
