IAM District 776 is preparing for upcoming 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. Led by IAM Education Representative Richard Dees, the course aims to equip committee members with skills needed for the talks, which are set to begin on March 16. The current agreement, covering approximately 5,000 workers who build the F-35 fighter jet, expires at midnight on June 14, 2026.
The training includes drafting contract language, strategic planning, contract costing, communications, and negotiation simulations. These sessions are being held at District 776’s office as part of a broader effort by IAM leadership 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.”
Securing a strong contract is seen as important not only for national defense but also for supporting around 300,000 supply chain jobs across the country—many of which are held by IAM members.
IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin emphasized 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.”
