Key facts
- Boeing and the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) have started contract negotiations.
- The union represents about 17,000 engineers and technical workers.
- SPEEA's priorities include better pay, improved benefits, and more flexible work arrangements.
- The current contract expires on October 6, 2026.
- Artificial intelligence is expected to be a subject of discussion during the talks.
Boeing and the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA), the union representing its engineers and technical workers, have initiated formal contract negotiations. The union, which represents approximately 17,000 members, is aiming for improved compensation, enhanced benefits, and more adaptable work arrangements as their current labor agreements approach expiration in October.
Artificial intelligence is anticipated to be a significant topic within these negotiations, reflecting the evolving technological landscape of the aerospace industry. SPEEA's contract is set to expire on October 6, 2026, with formal bargaining sessions now underway. The union's core priorities for the 2026 contract include consolidation of paid time off and vacation/sick leave, improvements to retirement benefits, establishment of annual raise pools, and better compensation for on-call work.
Unlike the challenging circumstances of the 2020 negotiations, which occurred during a period of crisis for Boeing marked by the 737 MAX grounding and the pandemic's impact, the current talks are taking place during a period of company recovery. Boeing has reported increased aircraft deliveries and is working towards its free cash flow targets. The upcoming move of the 737 North Line production to Everett is also seen as adding strategic importance to the region.
The negotiation process involves extensive member input, with surveys conducted to identify key priorities. SPEEA has also launched a Contract Action Team to mobilize its members and exert pressure during the formal bargaining sessions, signaling member engagement and readiness to act if talks falter. The typical negotiation timeline extends through spring and summer, with resolutions usually reached before the contract's expiration.