SPEEA news
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The gist
Boeing's white-collar union SPEEA votes on a four-year contract offer, with results expected Friday. The deal's 3% inflation cap could decide whether 17,000 engineers strike.
Background
Boeing is negotiating its first full contract with SPEEA in nearly 14 years, covering about 17,000 engineers and technical workers in Washington and nearby states. The current contract expires October 6, and a strike could delay Boeing's certification of the 737 Max 10 and 777-9, which are already behind schedule. The proposed contract includes wage increases tied to inflation capped at 3%, plus performance-based raises, but some workers fear this will not keep up with the cost of living.
How it unfolded
- Jul 1, 2026Boeing began negotiations with SPEEA, the first full contract talks in nearly 14 years.
- Aug 15, 2026Indications emerged that SPEEA members might reject the contract, with a 60% benchmark mentioned in the negotiation process.
- Aug 18, 2026Some SPEEA workers said the contract offer is 'just not enough,' citing concerns about the 3% inflation cap and performance-based raises.
- Aug 21, 2026Voting concludes on the contract offer; results expected today. Boeing shares slipped as investors watched the outcome.
Who’s saying what
- Union members
- Some SPEEA members say the 3% cap on inflation-based raises nearly guarantees their salaries will fall behind inflation.
- Company
- Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said the company began discussions early to reach an agreement that supports employees and creates clarity for the business.
- Analysts
- Investors are wary that a strike could interrupt Boeing's recovery, as commercial deliveries and certification work have just started to improve.
Still unverified
The exact vote count and final results were not yet available at the time of reporting.