Cessna Aircraft and the union that represents 2,300 of the company’s factory workers–the International Association of Machinists Lodge 774–began contract negotiations on August 20. The workers’ current contract expires September 19. The economic background to these negotiations differs greatly from three years ago, when the general aviation aircraft manufacturing industry was booming. Cessna is now facing an ­uncertain future, given the overall economy and increased competition from Embraer, which means the company will likely need some concessions from workers this time. “This is all about saving and preserving our industry and the jobs and the work force we have,” noted Cessna president, chairman and CEO Jack Pelton at the opening negotiation session.