IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement. The contract, which covers 300 workers including 120 IAM members, was approved by an overwhelming majority on November 12 after two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson.
Negotiations began in early October with non-economic proposals and shifted to economic issues in early November. Nachimson described the talks as productive and focused on securing improvements for union members. “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve,” said Nachimson.
The agreement introduces several changes that long-time employees say address long-standing concerns. These include modifications to paid time off policies and the elimination of alternating lump-sum payments for general pay increases, which had previously resulted in lost income for workers over time.
IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin praised the outcome: “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations,” Martin said. “Their solidarity and preparation delivered life-changing improvements for our members, and other negotiations with John Deere will follow their lead.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant also acknowledged the efforts of those involved: “This agreement shows what workers can achieve when they stand together,” said Bryant. “Taking the time and effort to fix long-time issues with improvements like this is something to be very proud of. This contract reflects the true value of their labor.”
Nachimson highlighted that three out of four bargaining team members were first-time negotiators and credited support from Derek Cearley, Taz Hurst, and Pamela Evans from IAM’s Winpisinger Center. “Everyone stepped up,” Nachimson said. “This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
Key provisions of the new contract include annual general wage increases of 4%, 3%, 2%, and 2% over four years; an end to lump-sum wage years; all paid time off now compensated at full hourly rates; two additional personal vacation days that function as sick leave; an option to skip PTO during plant shutdowns without penalty; a $3,000 ratification bonus; increased shift differential, HSA contributions, 401(k) match, and safety shoe allowance; no insurance premium increases throughout the contract term; Veterans Day added as a paid holiday; enhancements to work schedules and production incentives; addition of Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance; and signs pointing toward future work and capital investment at the Augusta facility.
The bargaining committee consisted of Roseal Goss (Chair and Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
