IAM Local 2789 members at John Deere’s Augusta, Georgia facility have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement, marking what many consider the most robust contract for this workforce in more than two decades. The agreement, finalized after two weeks of negotiations led by IAM District 243 Business Representative Cal Nachimson, covers 300 workers, including 120 International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) members.
Negotiations started with non-economic proposals in early October and moved to economic issues in November. According to Nachimson, both parties maintained a productive approach throughout the talks. “We kept the focus where it needed to be—on getting our members the contract they deserve,” said Nachimson.
The new contract brings significant changes that long-time employees had sought, such as revisions to paid time off policies and ending the alternating lump-sum system for general pay increases—a practice that had resulted in income loss over time.
IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin commented on the outcome: “Local 2789 set a new standard for John Deere negotiations. 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 recognized the team’s efforts. “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 noted that unity among the bargaining team was key, even as three members were first-time negotiators. He thanked Southern Territory Special Representative Derek Cearley, IAM Senior Research Economist Taz Hurst, and Pamela Evans from IAM’s Winpisinger Center for their assistance. “Everyone stepped up,” said Nachimson. “This contract puts money back in our members’ pockets and gives them the respect they deserve. The negotiation committee deserves all the praises.”
The new agreement provides several major improvements:
– Annual wage increases of 4%, 3%, 2%, and 2% over four years
– Elimination of lump-sum wage years in favor of compounding raises
– All paid time off now compensated at full hourly rates
– Two additional personal vacation days functioning as sick leave
– Option to opt out of PTO during plant shutdowns without penalties
– A $3,000 ratification bonus
– Increases to shift differential pay, health savings account contributions, 401(k) match rates, and safety shoe allowance
– No insurance premium increases throughout the contract term
– Addition of Veterans Day as a paid holiday
– Improvements in work schedules and production incentives
– Inclusion of Machinists Custom Choices supplemental insurance
– Promises of future work assignments and capital investment at the facility
The bargaining committee included Roseal Goss (Chair and Local 2789 President), Frederica Haynes, Stevie Crocker, and Billy Dingel.
