Locked-out workers back on the job at Progress Casting

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.workdayminnesota.org/index.php?news_6_4272

By Barb Kucera, Workday editor
9 December 2009
PLYMOUTH - After enduring a yearlong lockout, employees of Progress Casting are headed back to work with the sale of the company to new ownership.
The first workers were recalled Nov. 23, the Monday before Thanksgiving, said Greg Sticha, financial secretary-treasurer of Local 63B of the Glass, Molder, Pottery, Plastics and Allied Workers International Union.

“Before the end of the year, 87 people will be re-employed,” he said. “We hope it will eventually reach 200, but it all depends on the economy.”

Wellman Dynamics, based in Creston, Iowa, purchased the Plymouth-based Progress for an undisclosed sum. Wellman, a subsidiary of the Fansteel Corporation, is a major producer of complex components for helicopters, missiles, rocket engines and jet engines and structural parts for both military and commercial aircraft. The Creston facility is a primary manufacturer of magnesium castings, while Progress produces aluminum castings for aerospace and other customers.

While the sale was being negotiated, the company and union bargained a contract. The pact includes a provision for Wellman to recall all locked-out and laid-off employees before making any new hires.

“We know at least we have some jobs to go to,” said Nick Hill, union shop chairman. “The future is a lot better for us.”

FULL story at link.