IAM Milwaukee Art Museum Employees Ratify First Agreement

IAM District 10 members at the Milwaukee Art Museum (MAM) recently ratified a first agreement representing more than 75 employees.

The new three-year accord features guaranteed general wage increases in the second and third contract years of 2.75% and 2%, respectively, with a guaranteed minimum raise of 55 cents in these years for all bargaining unit employees.

The new deal includes job security improvements such as a clear and defined process for future layoffs and recalls based on seniority, and limitations on subcontracting when qualified employees are on layoff. Workers also secured increased access to health insurance through the Machinists Custom Choices Plan.

The success follows a long effort by museum management to deny workers efforts to unionize, or even have a vote. Workers endured an anti-union campaign leading up to their historic wall to wall organizing win.

“My thanks go out to the Bargaining Committee,” said IAM District 10 Directing Business Representative Alex Hoekstra. “The bargaining unit called for a focus on equity and fairness, and their new contract does just that.”

“We are thrilled to welcome this dedicated group of workers,” said IAM District 10 Organizer Anne Wiberg. “By uniting together, they changed their workplace for the better. This contract reflects their commitment and persistence. They knew the value of being in the IAM from the start.” 

“I couldn’t be more proud of what these new members accomplished,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Steve Galloway. “Securing a first contract is the ultimate, true win of a successful organizing campaign. The IAM members at MAM took their future into their own hands bargaining and ensuring guaranteed raises and procedures that protect workers. I congratulate them on ratifying their first agreement.”

Museum employees work in various departments including Art Preparation, Conservation, Curatorial, Design, Development, Education, Facilities, Food & Beverage, Information Systems, Library, Marketing, Registrar, Museum Store, and Visitor Services. 

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Updated: January 31, 2022 — 2:20 pm