Bombardier implemented a new contract last week covering 455 workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) at its Wichita site. The contract takes effect after 92 percent of the voting IAM workers agreed to the proposal on October 7. In all, Bombardier has 1,600 workers in Wichita.

The proposal covered pay increases, ratification bonuses and health care and pension protections, as well as the creation of a voluntary separation program for workers who have reached age 55 and have 25 years of service.

The contract, said Mark Blondin, of the IAMAW Southern Territory, “not only takes care of the workers on the shop floor right now, but also sets a trajectory for the future of aerospace in Wichita.”

Bombardier added the agreement reflects both the company’s and the workers' “mutual continued commitment to the success of Bombardier's Wichita site. The company believes the strength of its operations in Wichita resides with the products it manufactures and the experienced, dedicated and skilled workforce.”