IAM District 776 is preparing for upcoming contract negotiations with Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas. The district’s bargaining team recently participated in a negotiation preparation course at the William W. Winpinsiger Education and Technology Center. Led by IAM Education Representative Richard Dees, the course focused on key skills such as drafting contract language, strategic planning, contract costing, communications, and negotiation simulation.
The agreement under negotiation covers about 5,000 Lockheed Martin workers in Fort Worth who are involved in building the F-35 fighter aircraft. The current labor agreement will expire at midnight on June 14, 2026. Negotiations are scheduled to begin on March 16.
IAM District 776 President and Directing Business Representative Doyle Huddleston said, “Prep week gives committee members the tools to face Lockheed and ensures success. Our members expect us to go in there and secure them the best contract we can. This will be possible in part because of the tools we gain this week.”
According to union officials, securing a strong contract not only supports national defense but also contributes to economic stability by supporting around 300,000 supply chain jobs across the country. Many of these positions are held by IAM members.
IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin emphasized the importance of preparation: “Negotiation preparation ensures that the committee has the necessary information to better equip their effort to raise the voices of our membership,” he said. “This committee will be ready for successful negotiations.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant stated, “This union commits every resource available at our disposal to support our membership at Lockheed. We reaffirm our commitment to the membership in securing an agreement they deserve. Ensuring their negotiating team is prepared is paramount to that success.”
