UAW President Shawn Fain Rallies Cincinnati Workers Amid Looming GE Aerospace Strike

UAW President Shawn Fain energized a crowd of over 600 union members in downtown Cincinnati on Tuesday, August 26, as they brace for a potential strike against GE Aerospace.

The rally, held at the Hard Rock Casino, occurred just over a day before the current contract's expiration.

Fain's impassioned address underscored the urgency of the situation.

"Are you ready to rumble?" he challenged the assembly.

"I know you are. Believe me, GE Aerospace is getting the message: the clock is ticking."

Members of UAW Local 647, representing workers at GE Aerospace facilities in Evendale, Ohio, and Erlanger, Kentucky, had previously voted overwhelmingly—84% in favor—to authorize a strike if negotiations falter.

Their contract is set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on August 27.

Key issues fueling the potential strike include job security, healthcare costs, and insufficient time off.

One Evendale mechanic, with 13 years at the company, lamented the lack of compassion from management.

He recounted nearly facing disciplinary action for arriving late during his daughter's hospitalization, highlighting the company's rigid policies.

"There is no compassion from this company. There is nothing," he stated.

GE Aerospace, a cornerstone of the Cincinnati region's robust aerospace sector, employs approximately 9,000 individuals locally.

The company has recently announced significant investments, including a $113 million infusion into Cincinnati-area sites to enhance manufacturing capabilities and support growing demand.

Despite these developments, the company faces mounting pressure from its workforce.

Negotiations with the UAW commenced on July 31, with the company expressing a commitment to "good-faith negotiations" to reach an agreement.

Notably, on August 20, GE Aerospace ratified a five-year contract with 550 workers in Evendale represented by the International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers.

As the deadline approaches, the community watches closely.

A strike could have significant implications, not only for the workers and their families but also for the broader regional economy.

The aerospace industry contributes over $5 billion to the area's gross regional product, underscoring the high stakes involved.

In the coming hours, the outcome of these negotiations will determine whether the workers' demands are met or if the region will witness a significant labor action.

For now, the message from the union is clear: the clock is ticking.