An 8-week strike against Lockheed Martin Corp may be coming to an end. On Monday, June 18, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) agreed to enter into workplace mediation with the company. The mediation process is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, June 20, in Fort Worth, TX. The mediation will be provided by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS).

The Movement Toward Mediation Services

The service said it began the move towards mediation after talking with union representatives and corporation executives. The FMCS is an independent federal agency, provides over 5,000 mediations every year.

What's at stake? Local Union president Paul Black says that it's not just the big things, such as pensions and health benefits. There are a variety of smaller issues that IAM would like to see addressed as well.

The strike comes at a difficult time for Lockheed Martin. The company is currently in negotiation for a fifth batch of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. According to one source, defense officials have been squeezing the company over its pay and benefits plan, insisting that it make cuts in order to provide the Pentagon with less expensive aircraft.

The company has hired more than 300 temporary laborers, and imported 50 other workers from other locations. In addition, 1,000 salaried workers, as well as 500 union workers who have crossed their own picket lines, are helping complete production.

Hopeful Outlook for Mediation

"We're hopeful the FMCS can provide the independent perspective that often produces the framework for a resolution," said Mark Blondin, general vice president of IAM.

Lockheed Martin gave an affirmative about accepting the workplace mediation offer, but did not issue any further statements.