United Auto Workers members at American Axle's Three Rivers plant are gearing up for a key strike-authorization vote on May 11–12, just weeks before their contract expires on May 31. If members give the green light, Local 2093 could be in a position to walk off the job as soon as that contract runs out, driven by workers who say wages, benefits, and job security never fully bounced back after deep cuts during the 2008 recession.
Vote timeline and what it would mean
UAW Local 2093 has scheduled the May 11–12 ballot and notes that the current agreement runs through May 31, with any authorized strike action possible on or after that date, according to UAW Local 2093. A “yes” vote would not automatically shut the plant down, but it would arm the bargaining committee with strike authority as talks continue. Union leaders say the vote is meant to show how far members are prepared to go if negotiations stall before the end of the month.
What workers are demanding
Members are pushing to claw back wages that were cut during the Great Recession and are also seeking stronger health care, retirement benefits, and job security as the company modernizes its operations. "American Axle is a mainstay in this community, and we're fighting to make it better by making our lives better," UAW member Jay Korf said in a statement. UAW Region 1D director Steve Dawes added that "this company is making billions every year – these workers are ready to do whatever it takes to win a record contract that's long past due." The comments and the union's list of priorities were reported by CBS News Detroit.
Why the Three Rivers plant matters
The Three Rivers facility builds front and rear axles and has recently drawn fresh investment attention. Last fall, the company announced a $133 million expansion at the site. As a Tier 1 supplier to major automakers, American Axle's Michigan operations form a key piece of its domestic driveline network, and federal records list the Three Rivers workforce as represented by UAW Local 2093. For more on the plant’s role and representation, see reporting from American Machinist and the NLRB.
What’s next
The May 11–12 vote will serve as an early read on whether rank-and-file workers are prepared to back a strike if bargaining does not produce an acceptable contract offer before May 31. Negotiators are expected to keep working at the table through the month while the union readies informational meetings and conducts the vote. CBS News Detroit reported on the union’s announcement and noted that the company was contacted for comment and did not immediately respond.
