A significant milestone has been reached for 110 office and technical workers at Voyageur Aviation in North Bay, Ontario. The newest members of IAM Local 2412 have officially ratified their first collective agreement, marking a major win for workplace fairness and unity.
The journey wasn’t easy. After rejecting the employer’s initial “final offer” and passing a strike authorization vote, the members stood firm in their demand for a better deal. Their determination brought both parties back to the bargaining table, where they reached a union-recommended agreement that passed with strong support, over 75%, voting in favour.
“Negotiations committee members Elisabeth Robillard, Devin McElheran, and Mohammad Khan knew that the members wouldn’t be content without a fair wage scale and a pathway to moving up in the workplace,” said IAM Union International Representative Scott Jackson. “They stayed focused and determined, and it paid off.”
IAM International Representative Neil Giroux, who will continue to represent the unit, added: “Both of these issues, and much more, were achieved. This is a great first contract and a solid foundation to build on.”
The new agreement ensures wage fairness, growth opportunities, and improved working conditions for the team at Voyageur Aviation, a company known for its regional aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. With this ratification, these workers have secured not only stronger rights but also a voice in shaping their future.
