Lordstown Ultium Cells workers overwhelmingly approve 4-year contract at facility

Ultium Cells workers, members of United Autoworkers Union Local 1112, overwhelmingly approved their 4-year contract Sunday, with a 98 percent approval rate.

The vote by the 1,600 Ultium Cells workers took place from Friday through Sunday. The new contract goes into effect Monday and expires April 30, 2028.

Ultium Cells plant director Kareem Maine says this has been a long journey with multiple changes along the way and the result was a proud moment for everyone.

"Everyone should take some time to recognize your role in creating the first unionized battery manufacturing contract in the history of the United States," Maine said.

The pact includes wage increases, a 10 percent premium for night shift workers, overtime incentives, backpay for 401k, and local language specific for Ultium.

UAW members will also receive a $3,000 lump ratification bonus.

Union officials say the wages of production, quality, SRP, and material handling workers will increase by 30% over three years.

Workers starting in those categories will start at $26.91, with wages reaching $30.50 after a year on the job.  By September 2027, those workers will be making $35 an hour.

Maintenance employees will be paid $43.79 three years from now.

In addition, the contract offers full pay for bereavement, jury duty, and short-term military duty, along with improved holiday pay.

The contract includes language on seniority, shift preferences, department transfers, overtime, layoffs, recalls, discipline and job security.

The new wage scale will go into effect immediately and the remaining aspects of the contract will be implemented as soon as possible.

A statement from union president George Goranitis reads as follows:

"We are thrilled to announce that our local union contract has passed with an overwhelming 98 percent approval rate! This success is a testament to the hard work of our dedicated bargaining committee and the unwavering solidarity of our members throughout this entire journey. Together, we have achieved historic milestones once again. While we celebrate this victory, we must remember that our work is far from over. There are still many challenges ahead of us.

"Today is a great day as we witness the positive impact of gaining well-paying jobs here in the valley. These accomplishments not only benefit our membership but also have a ripple effect on our communities. Together, we have shown that unity and determination can lead to meaningful change."