It seems the war on workers never rests. The members of IAM (International Association of Machinists) Local 1211 found that out on Sunday, January 11, 2026.

More than 250 IAM Union Local 1211 members in Erie, Pa, who manufacture vibration and motion control components for the aerospace industry voted to go on strike against Parker Lord over unresolved economic issues, marking a historic moment for the local union. At the center of the dispute is the company's refusal to adequately address wages that have failed to keep pace with the rising cost of living over the past five-year contract. Despite the union's good-faith efforts to reach a fair agreement, Parker Lord has not offered economic proposals that meet members' needs.

As a result, IAM Local 1211 members voted to withhold their labor, and the strike began at 12 a.m. ET on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026. "Our members have shown patience and professionalism for years,” said IAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representative Kermit Forbes. "But after decades without a strike, this vote reflects how serious these economic concerns have become and how determined our members are to fight for fair wages and respect on the job." IAM Local 1211 remains ready to return to the bargaining table and urges Parker Lord to present a proposal that recognizes the value, skill, and dedication of its workforce.

In a show of solidarity to our Union Brothers and Sisters fighting for a fair contract, Local 776 BA Dave Licht, Trustee Justin Seitz, and Organizer Josh Todd were on the strike line in Erie on Monday, January 19, and Tuesday, January 20. Teamsters Local 397, headquartered in Erie, was also on site offering support to the striking Members. Despite terrible weather with snow, low temperatures in the teens, a low of 3 degrees Tuesday morning, and with 45 mph wind gusts both days, Local 776 Teamsters stood strong with their IAM Brothers in their fight for an equitable contract.

L-R: Justin, PA Representative Pat Harkins, Teamsters Local 397 Principal Officer Doug Youngs, Dave, and Josh

Commented Local 776 President Ed Thompson: "An injustice to one is an injustice to all. The IAM Members are fighting for their economic lives in brutal weather that will test the mettle of any person. I'm proud to say Local 776 had people on site supporting the IAM strikers, letting them know they are not alone in their fight for a fair and just contract. Thanks to Dave, Justin, and Josh for finding the time to make the trek to Erie for this show of support."

Another day on the line, another day stronger. Braving these conditions just strengthens the Members' resolve to fight for a better contract

It's a new year, and the Local 776 Retirees Club is starting it with their monthly meeting, featuring guest speakers. The meeting is this coming Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Our guest speakers, Cathy Bollinger and Phil Woods from the York County Community Foundation, will present a program on healthy aging.

Come out, stay active, and connect with other retirees. Just because you're no longer punching the clock, you're still a Teamster, the best kind; a Retired Teamster!

On January 11, 2026, Local 776 held nominations for the election of delegates and alternate delegates to the IBT convention at the Local 776 Union Hall in Camp Hill.

William Gross of WDG Consulting conducted the nomination meeting. Once nominations were opened to the floor, the incumbent Officers, Business Agents, and Organizers, collectively known as the Teamsters for Teamsters Slate, were each nominated, seconded, and the nominations were accepted by each candidate. Mr. Gross called a second time for nominations from the floor. Hearing none, Mr. Gross called for nominations from the floor a third and final time. Hearing no nominations after the third call, Mr. Gross declared nominations closed. He then declared the Teamsters for Teamsters Slate winners of the election by acclamation.

The Teamsters for Teamsters Slate would like to thank the Members of Local 776 for their continued support as they represent Local 776 members at the IBT convention.

It's been a busy couple of weeks around the Union Hall as we celebrate our Season of Caring, Season of Sharing. From the smiling faces in the pictures we've been sharing, it looks like it was a successful Holiday Season.

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who helps with our holiday endeavors: the Local Union Officers and Business Agents, the office staff, the Teamster Horsemen, the Smiley Family Cookie Factory, and, last but not least, the Members.

The Members who take an ornament to purchase a gift for a child from a needy family, the Members who work behind the scenes making goodie bags, the Members who give their precious time and show up at our events, and the Members who pitch in and do what's needed. The Members who stand together as one proud organization to support working men and women.

I've said it so often, but I'll repeat it: it's the Members coming together to support THEIR Union that makes me say, "I'm Proud to be a Teamster!" On behalf of everyone at Local 776, I wish you a safe and Merry Christmas!

Fraternally,

Ed Thompson,

President, Teamsters Local 776