Proving your worth
Deere skilled-trades workers make their case during massive plant reorganization in Iowa
Things are looking way up for UAW Local 838’s skilled-trades workers as they bring massive machinery down to a ground-level building at John Deere Co.’s Waterloo Works.
Skilled-trades workers at this sprawling complex in northeastern Iowa are in the midst of a $127 million reorganization that has added about 25 workers to their facilities group. They’ve demonstrated to Deere management that the old way of doing business — using its UAW skilled-trades workforce instead of outside contractors for most of the work — dovetails nicely with lean manufacturing, the new way of business.
“We told them, ‘Let’s go back to the old way of doing business and we’ll show you what we can do,’ ” said Ron McInroy, one of Local 838’s skilled-trades committeepersons. “We do an excellent job and the company will tell you the same thing.”
Deere workers are moving many types of manufacturing machinery from multistory buildings to a single-story facility. The move is designed to gain efficiencies by having all elements of the drive-train line under one roof.
The project, which started in 2003, is on schedule for completion next year and on budget, and safety to date has been excellent, Deere managers said.
“It’s terrific that Deere managers recognize the value and dedication our skilled-trades workers bring to their work,” said UAW Vice President Cal Rapson, who directs the union’s Skilled Trades Department.
And worker morale is great, said Mike McRoberts, Local 838’s shop chairman at its Westfield Avenue facility, and skilled trades committeeperson Brian Schwickerath.
The trades involved are ironworkers, machine repair, welders, electricians, toolmakers and plumbers. Most are working 10-hour shifts.
“They keep us moving,” said Jim Severance, an electrician with 27 years at Deere. “The pressure is really on at the end (of a move) for the electricians.”
At the beginning of the move, the ironworkers get together and figure out how they will get the massive machinery into an elevator and across the facility.
“The biggest thing is figuring out your route, figuring out how you are going to get your machine from Point A to Point B,” said Mike Patterson, a 32-year veteran who was scheduled to retire in March.
Ironworker Tom Kendall said several people are involved in the move, including a three-person production worker team that drains all oils and other fluids and secures the machine. Repair mechanics, machinists, jobbing floor and overhaul floor workers are also essential to accomplish the moves and refurbishments.
“They do a great job in getting these things ready to be moved,” said Kendall, a 39-year veteran. “You don’t just pick them up and move them.”
