IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement. The vote took place on November 12 after two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson. The contract covers about 300 workers, including 120 International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) members, and is considered the strongest agreement in over two decades for this workforce.
Negotiations started with non-economic proposals in early October and moved to economic issues in early November. According to Nachimson, “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve.”
Long-term employees welcomed updates to paid time off policies and the removal of the alternating lump-sum system for general pay increases, which had previously reduced income for some workers.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, commented on the outcome: “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 recognized the negotiation team’s efforts. “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 acknowledged the unity among bargaining team members, including three first-time negotiators. He expressed gratitude to Southern Territory Special Representative Derek Cearley, IAM Senior Research Economist Taz Hurst, and Pamela Evans from IAM’s Winpisinger Center for their support.
“Everyone stepped up,” Nachimson said. “This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
The new contract includes several key provisions:
– Annual general wage increases over four years (4%, 3%, 2%, and 2%)
– Elimination of lump-sum wage years in favor of compounding raises
– All paid time off compensated at full hourly rates instead of a percentage formula
– Two additional personal vacation days that can be used as sick leave
– An option to forego paid time off during plant shutdowns without penalties
– A $3,000 ratification bonus
– Increases in shift differentials, health savings account contributions, 401(k) match rates, and safety shoe allowances
– No increases in insurance premiums throughout the contract period
– Veterans Day added as a paid holiday
– Changes to work schedules and production incentives
– Introduction of Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance
– Signs suggesting future work assignments and capital investment at the Augusta facility
The bargaining committee consisted of Roseal Goss (Chair and Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
