ST. LOUIS - More than 3,000 Boeing defense workers remain on strike at plants across the St. Louis region. 

The walkout, now in its fourth week, is the company’s first defense-sector strike since 1996.

Workers say they want to keep building America’s defense aircraft, but only with a contract that values their experience.

“We’re not pushing for anything extreme,” said Amil, a Boeing machinist. “We’re just asking for a fair contract at the end of the day.”

Boeing’s latest offer included a 20% pay increase over four years and a $5,000 bonus for newer hires. 

Veteran workers say the plan caps their pay and doesn’t reflect the added responsibility they carry, including mentoring new employees and keeping production running smoothly.

“We’ve been pushing for a better raise, but they’ve been cheating the older guys,” Amil said. “They robbed our second and third year, with almost no raise. At the end of the day, it’s the experienced workers who keep everything running.”

An anonymous striker also called out Boeing’s corporate values, which emphasize accountability and care. The company’s CEO has promoted a “Give a Damn” culture as part of these values.

“Earlier this year, our CEO had a strong focus on culture within the company. As soon as contract negotiations start, he has now stated we are only 2%. It’s insulting and even more demoralizing to hear that from your own company. We demand respect! We demand it now! At least we give a damn!” the striker said.

Union leaders warn that without contract changes, experienced employees could leave for competitors. 

“Boeing, please come to the table next week and I guarantee we can work out a deal,” Amil said.

Boeing has paused talks indefinitely but says it has contingency plans to keep production moving. 

Union leaders say they’re ready to return to negotiations, but for now, picket lines remain.