The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) called on March 16 for a meeting with Whirlpool Corporation Chairman and CEO Marc Bitzer to discuss recent layoffs at the company’s Amana, Iowa, manufacturing facility and to seek clarity on future plans for remaining workers.
The union’s request comes after a series of workforce reductions at the Amana plant, which has seen its employee numbers drop from about 3,000 to potentially as few as 500 to 600 following the March 9 layoff of 341 workers. IAM leadership said it is seeking accountability from Whirlpool regarding its increased investment in Mexico and wants direct engagement between company executives and union representatives.
In their letter to Bitzer, IAM leaders Brian Bryant and Cicinelli wrote: “A modernization plan that displaces hundreds of skilled, long-tenured workers without a concrete roadmap for retained or restored employment is not a workforce strategy; it is a workforce reduction.”
The union cited research indicating that Whirlpool has invested more than $1 billion in Mexico over the past two decades, tripling its workforce there while reducing jobs at the Amana facility. The IAM is formally requesting that any meeting address several key points: details on the timeline and scope of the Amana modernization plan; projected employment levels after completion; opportunities to bring new production lines to Amana; transition and reemployment commitments for laid-off workers beyond general assistance already referenced by Whirlpool; and support for Trade Adjustment Assistance certification for affected employees.
The IAM has been actively supporting its Local 1526 members at Whirlpool. This includes organizing a solidarity rally on March 6 in Amana that brought together labor leaders, elected officials, and community members.
Looking ahead, the union continues to press for answers from Whirlpool leadership regarding job security and future investments in U.S.-based manufacturing.
