“We will hold them accountable” Hundreds strike at Eaton Aerospace in Jackson

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — UAW Local 475 says over 500 union employees of Eaton Aerospace went on strike as of noon Monday, taking to the picket lines outside of the factory holding “UAW On Strike” signs.

The strike came after the workers’ extended contract expired on Sept. 5. While Eaton Aerospace Director of Communications Katie Kennedy tells 6 News that the company and the union’s bargaining committee had reached a tentative agreement and were nearing a deal at the time of the strike, the union says the company’s proposed new two-tier retirement system was a point of disagreement.

“We are fighting for our future and our community,” said Donnie Huffman, president of UAW Local 475. “Every worker should have the right to be able to spend time with our grandkids. When your CEO is making more than $20 million, it’s pretty galling when they cry poverty at the negotiating table.”

Union representatives say that the company is pushing to eliminate the pension and 401k plans for all of its new hires.

In addition to their discontent with the retirement plan changes, workers say they are striking for better health insurance, higher wages, and better processes for scheduling and promotions.

All of these, the union says, would be a better reflection of the company’s rise in profits.

“This company has made billions on workers’ backs,” said Don Donihue, a trustee at the UAW local. “It is insulting that Eaton executives are trying to deny us our right to retire while giving themselves millions year after year. They can clearly afford to pay what we’re asking for.”

Eaton Airspace, of course, disagrees with the union’s decision to strike.

“We are disappointed that some of our employees decided to strike, especially since Eaton and the Union’s Bargaining Committee had previously reached a tentative agreement and were so close to a deal at the time the Union chose to strike,” Kennedy told 6 News.

The company also claims that the proposed contract was fair and nationally competitive—something that benefits both workers and the company.

“Eaton’s proposed contract is equitable and consistent with nationwide market trends and with our goal of attracting and retaining skilled workers,” said Kennedy. “Eaton’s proposal represents a significant investment into this workforce and in Jackson, Michigan.”

The company also says that the strike will not severely impact manufacturing.

“However, we have prepared for this possibility and are confident we have the capability to continue serving our customers and our community,” said Kennedy. “We remain committed to getting our employees back to work, and any employee who wishes to may work their normal schedule.”

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