New Boeing CEO pledges to reset relations with machinists [Video]

Boeing’s new boss said Friday he was looking to “reset” relations with a key union representing tens of thousands of its workers, amid negotiations for a new labor contract.

“I met with the presidents of IAM 751 & W24 this week in Seattle for a productive conversation and the opportunity to listen,” Boeing chief executive Kelly Ortberg wrote in a message to the aerospace giant’s 170,000-plus employees, a week after taking office.

“I shared with them my commitment to reset our relationship and reach a new contract where we can come together to build a strong future for our employees in the region,” Ortberg said in the message, shared with AFP, adding that contract negotiations were in the “final phase.”

The two local branches of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represent around 33,000 Boeing employees.

They are based in the Seattle area, home to factories for the …