27.11.2003

Manitowoc strike bought to a swift end

Four days after a strike was called by the International Association of Machinists at Manitowoc Cranes, a new five-year agreement was reached and a return to work declared.

At midnight on 18 November, Local 516 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers called on their 120 members at the company to down tools and walk out following the expiry of their old contract almost 1 month earlier on 31 October.

During the stoppage the company managed to maintain production without serious disruption thanks to other hourly employees and management stepping into the breach.

Barely 24 hours after negotiations commenced on Thursday 20 November, the two parties announced that a new five-year contract had been agreed that included a cash bonus in year one, and wage rate increases in years two through five.

Dave Helmer, chairman of the Bargaining Committee for the union, indicated that, “all of the issues that took the machinists out of the shop and onto the street were resolved to the majority’s satisfaction."

Helmer, who declared his commitment to both his job at Manitowoc Cranes and his union, was quick to compliment Tom Musial, human resources vice president for Manitowoc Company, for his assistance in promptly resolving the work stoppage.