Bargaining Update 08/14/2025

Still pushing for what’s right

Brothers and Sisters,

First, we want to thank every single one of you for your continued support. The sea of red on the shop floor sends a powerful message: we all share the same goal, securing a life-changing contract.

Currently, we are awaiting some key RFI (Request for Information) materials from management. The company’s economic package is currently under review by the UAW, so your bargaining committee can prepare a counterproposal based on the priorities you shared in our most recent survey. We are compiling data and building a strong economic package to present to the company.

This week, we also discussed at length the company’s continued unilateral change in job combinations and crossing classifications. Until we get a resolution on this issue at the table, we will not move forward. The company needs to recognize that each of us has a job specific within our classifications— we are not all “utility” and we should not be treated as a labor pool.

A major focus was on the importance of our Skilled Trades. Combining core trades only weakens them, erodes quality, and puts everyone at risk. Skilled Trades are highly specialized positions that require training, certification, and experience, and the company’s lack of effort to hire truly qualified people is unacceptable. Without a strong and respected Skilled Trades workforce, production suffers, and safety can be compromised. Protecting these jobs protects the backbone of our operation. We also addressed the need to respect and protect seniority rights within the trades. 

 The company has lost sight of a simple truth: without us — the workers — this company can’t produce anything. We are the foundation of AM General, and it’s time they remember that.

While our goal remains reaching a Tentative Agreement (TA) without a labor dispute, we will be setting a date soon for a strike authorization vote. This vote is more than a formality; it is a powerful message to the company that the membership stands united and ready to take action if necessary. A strong, full turnout “YES” sends management a clear warning: we are serious, we are organized, and we will not settle for less than the contract we deserve.

Your solidarity is our strength, and together, we will win the contract you’ve earned.

In solidarity,

Your UAW Local 5 Bargaining Committee