IAM District 776 is preparing for contract negotiations with Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas. The bargaining team recently participated in a negotiation preparation course at the William W. Winpinsiger Education and Technology Center. The course, led by IAM Education Representative Richard Dees, is designed to equip members with skills for the upcoming talks scheduled to begin on March 16. The current labor agreement covers about 5,000 workers who assemble the F-35 fighter jet and expires at midnight on June 14, 2026.
The training includes drafting contract language, strategic planning, contract costing, communications, and negotiation simulations. District 776 is also holding additional courses at its office as part of a broader effort to enhance in-field preparation.
“Prep week gives committee members the tools to face Lockheed and ensures success,” said IAM District 776 President and Directing Business Representative Doyle Huddleston. “Our members expect us to go in there and secure them the best contract we can. This will be possible in part because of the tools we gain this week.”
A strong labor agreement not only supports national defense but also contributes to the economy by sustaining around 300,000 supply chain jobs across the country. Many of these positions are held by IAM members.
IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin commented on the importance of preparation: “Negotiation preparation ensures that the committee has the necessary information to better equip their effort to raise the voices of our membership,” he said. “This committee will be ready for successful negotiations.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant added: “This union commits every resource available at our disposal to support our membership at Lockheed. We reaffirm our commitment to the membership in securing an agreement they deserve. Ensuring their negotiating team is prepared is paramount to that success.”
