Using UAW workforce to maintain competitive edge

Scott Gomez of UAW Local 281 tightens the wheel bolts on a 544K loader with a DC torque tool.

They say "Nothing runs like a Deere," but it's not just a catchy slogan.

Since its founding in 1837, John Deere & Co. has grown from a one-man blacksmith shop into a global supplier of farm, forestry and construction equipment.

At Deere's Davenport (Iowa) Works facility – which has been a UAW shop since it opened in 1974 – its nearly 500-member highly skilled and motivated workforce are key reasons for the company's success.

"We are what keep its doors open," said Brian Goodhart, a UAW Local 281 member with 12 years at Deere. "What I see as the way we maintain our competitive edge is the utilization of our UAW workforce."

"Our commitment to safety, quality, delivery and efficiency – that's what sets us apart from the rest of the world," said Goodhart, 38, a former assembler and welder who is the union's Continuous Improvement coordinator.

Deere's Davenport Works plant produces seven products: 4WD loaders, motor graders, ADT trucks, log skidders, wheeled fellerbunchers, disc-saw felling heads and cabs (used for these products, as well as others made at their sister plant, Deere's Dubuque, Iowa, Works, about 70 miles away.)

The facility sells equipment to large contractors, as well as "mom and pop" businesses, along with government and military contracts.

"On the UAW's ag-imp (agricultural implement) side, and especially for John Deere, we've tried to be the most highly skilled, productive work force. And that will keep us competitive," he said.

Jennifer John