Union Hopes For Positive Change

The union representing more than 21,500 technical and professional workers at The Boeing Company is looking ahead in the wake of today's (March 7) abrupt resignation of President and CEO Harry Stonecipher.

The Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) IFPTE Local 2001, AFL-CIO, asks represented employees to reserve judgment on the change for the immediate future.

"We are hopeful that whoever takes the reigns will develop a vision that helps move us toward a strong and positive future," said Charles Bofferding, executive director of SPEEA. "Boeing thrives with an atmosphere that allows employees to use their skills and experience."

Stonecipher was often the focus of employee anger within Boeing. Relations improved in recent years, with Stonecipher meeting with union leaders and helping push forward an "incentive plan" last year during negotiation for a SPEEA-IFPTE bargaining unit in Wichita, Kansas. A rebounding economy, the new 787 and other new programs helped the union add numbers in recent months.

While the reason for the resignation is surprising, SPEEA President Jennifer MacKay said employees were aware Stonecipher (right) was planning to retire.

"It's time for the right change," MacKay said. "Employees have had enough turmoil from Boeing's leadership. It's time to turn this around and bring back The Boeing Company we know and love. Employees are ready to get back to what we do best -- building the best commercial and military aerospace products in the world."

Union officers will meet this week to discuss the change and assess its impact on employees.

SPEEA represents 21,500 engineers, technical workers and other professionals in aerospace, primarily at The Boeing Company.

FMI: www.speea.org