EAST HARTFORD – Pratt & Whitney released the details of its final contract offer that was rejected by the International Association of Machinists Union Locals 700 and 1746 in Greater Hartford Sunday night before about 3,000 workers went on strike.
According to a May 6 letter released by Jill Vichi, vice president and chief human resources officer, the offer was for three years with wage increases of 4% immediately, 3.5% in the second year, 3% in the third year. It also included cost of living allowance of 57 cents roll-in to base hourly rate before the first wage increase would be applied and would maintain COLA going forward, with an improved formula. Additionally, there was an immediate $5,000 bonus upon ratification of the contract.
“Our goal through the process has always been to provide a new contract that rewards you for your efforts, while allowing our business to continue to compete and preserving it for future generations,” Vichi wrote in the letter. “Our final offer would have done just that. It is important that you understand the full value of that offer as we move forward.”
In a statement, the union said a strike would go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 5.
“Our committee worked tirelessly to advance our member’s voices to the company, and the company simply failed to bring to the table an agreement that we felt comfortable recommending to our membership,” said IAM District 26 Directing Business Representative Jeff Santini. “At the end of the day, the membership always has the final say.”
Other details of the offer
- Wage progression and promotions: Automatic wage progression would have increased from 10 cents to 20 cents per hour every 16 weeks. Promotions would have increased from 50 cents to $1 per hour or to labor grade maximum, whichever is lower.
- Pension: Effective June 1, 2025, increased the pension multiplier by 20% from $94 to $113. Current pension plan participants (those hired before January 1, 2017) would cease to accrue benefits in the pension plan after Dec. 31, 2027. The pension the workers would have earned through Dec. 31, 2027, however, would be preserved and paid out at retirement. Effective Jan. 1, 2028, workers would have begun receiving the Company Automatic Contribution to their savings plan account.
- Healthcare: Maintained workers current comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, including company contributions to their Health Savings Account (HSA).
- Vacation schedule improvements: Effective Jan. 1, 2026, employees with 10 years of service would have received 20 vacation days and employees with 20 years of service would have received 25 vacation days.
