UAW Members at Rolls-Royce Vote 99.5% to Authorize Strike Action

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — On Thursday, February 13, an overwhelming 99.5% of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union members employed at the Rolls-Royce plant in Indianapolis voted in favor of authorizing a potential strike, with voter turnout at 86%. This facility, employing over 800 UAW members, is pivotal in manufacturing aircraft engines under U.S. government contracts.

David Green, Director of UAW Region 2B, emphasized the collective determination of the workforce, saying, “This vote proves the UAW members at Rolls-Royce are fed up, united, and ready to win the fair contract they deserve.” He further highlighted the pride the workers take in their work, stating their desire for equitable treatment.

As the current union contract is set to expire on February 26, 2025, negotiations are occurring against a backdrop of significant financial success for Rolls-Royce. In 2023, the company reported $2 billion in profits, marking a 144% increase from the previous year. The CEO's compensation also saw a substantial rise, reaching $16.9 million, up 255% from 2022. Notably, the U.S. market constitutes approximately 30% of Rolls-Royce's revenue.

John Snow, the Bargaining Chair at Rolls-Royce, voiced the core issues at stake, stating, “UAW members at Rolls-Royce are standing up for the things that all workers deserve: fair pay, decent healthcare, retirement security, and equal treatment.” Snow highlighted that some newer employees face healthcare costs of up to $16,000 annually to cover their families, advocating for uniform pay and benefits.

This move aligns Rolls-Royce workers with a broader UAW initiative against perceived corporate greed. Over 4,000 UAW members at Volkswagen are similarly engaged in efforts to secure a first contract in Chattanooga, Tennessee.