Engineering Work Shift: Union Seeks Clarification from Boeing
Recent developments have stirred concern among Boeing engineers as significant engineering work for the 787 Dreamliner program is being relocated from the Pacific Northwest to South Carolina. The Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA), representing over 24,000 engineers and technical staff, is demanding answers regarding this abrupt shift, which has raised alarm over potential job security issues.
Unexpected Announcement Sparks Concern
In a surprising announcement made late last week, SPEEA officials informed their members that critical engineering tasks associated with the 787 Dreamliner would transition across the country. This unexpected news left both union leaders and rank-and-file members uncertain, especially given that regular labor-management meetings are mandated by their contract.
Boeing has confirmed the move but has not provided specific details about the timelines, the number of positions affected, or the possibility of layoffs. Bryan Corliss, a representative from SPEEA, expressed the shared concern of many: “What does this mean for jobs here? Are layoffs on the horizon?”
Calling for Transparency
SPEEA asserts a contractual right to advance notice for major work assignment changes. Corliss emphasized that while Boeing has the authority to assign work as it sees fit, this does not absolve the company of its responsibility to inform workers beforehand. “We need to know about changes to mitigate their impact on our staff. We are asking Boeing for assurances that no one affected will be laid off, yet they have been unwilling to provide that.”
This dispute is occurring alongside broader labor tensions at Boeing. In late 2024, a significant strike by over 30,000 machinists halted production, incurring substantial financial losses and delaying international aircraft deliveries.
Boeing’s Position
In response to concerns, Boeing has stated that this engineering shift is not a retreat from the Puget Sound area. The company is hiring engineers in that region to support ongoing airplane programs and is also recruiting in South Carolina to boost 787 production. Boeing claims that placing engineers closer to their relevant aircraft will enhance collaboration and project efficiency.
Despite this, union leaders remain troubled by the lack of clarity surrounding the engineering relocation. “What’s the timeline? Which skill sets are relocating? What options will employees have if they don’t want to move?” Corliss indicated that many crucial questions remain unanswered.
Preparing for Negotiations
As SPEEA gears up for contract negotiations later this year, the ambiguity surrounding this engineering move could complicate discussions. The current contracts for the union’s two largest bargaining units—the professional and technical—are set to expire this fall, making timely negotiation vital. Union leaders warn that relocating work without clear commitments could further strain labor relations.
Under the existing contract, SPEEA meets with Boeing monthly to discuss workforce planning. However, the announcement about the engineering work shift occurred shortly after one of these routine meetings, limiting the opportunity for discussion or planning.
Looking Ahead
Union officials are committed to pressing Boeing for clarification on several pressing issues, such as options for engineers who choose not to relocate and potential reassignment opportunities. Boeing has yet to disclose how many engineers might be impacted by this move or the fate of those unwilling to make the transition.
Conclusion
As the situation unfolds, the urgency for clear communication between Boeing and SPEEA becomes paramount. With upcoming contract negotiations on the horizon, both sides will need to navigate this challenge carefully to ensure a constructive path forward. The outcome of this engineering shift could significantly influence the workforce’s future and the broader labor climate at Boeing.
