WICHITA, Kan.—
69% of Hawker Machinists voted "yes" to a five-year contract on Saturday.
The deal increases benefit costs, keep pensions in place (even for new hires) and gives raises in the third, fourth, and fifth years of the deal.
"It's probably the worst contract we've been offered since I've been out here. Could it have been worse? Yes, a lot worse. But with the economy the way it is, and with jobs the way they are, I'm gonna buy it," said Brenda Cook.
The phrase "it could be worse" came up a lot when talking with machinists voting at Wichita's Hartman Arena. Many said the economy played heavily into their decision.
"I want my job. I would rather keep my job than be out on the street"
Another machinists adds, "The company is losing money, we're probably going to lose money but we have to compromise."
In a statement released Saturday afternoon, Hawker Beechcraft CEO Bill Boisture says “We are pleased with the outcome of today’s vote. The partnership between the company and the Union leadership throughout this process has been productive. We look forward to building on this positive relationship throughout the next five years."
Boisture adds, “This is significant for our company and provides us with the opportunity to grow efficiently in the future and keep high-quality jobs in Wichita.”
Three years ago Hawker machinists spent nearly a month on strike. Many wore shirts, warning it could happen again, but union members will be reporting to work, as usual, come Monday morning.
"People are still feeling the pain from that last time. I'm sure the company was hurting when we were on strike, we were hurting, and I think this time they just came to a general consensus saying 'let's negotiate fairly' and I think that's what they did, they did it fairly," said John Friecht.
Read more: http://www.kwch.com
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