Union-represented workers at Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Ingalls Shipbuilding division have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement that includes the largest wage increase in the Mississippi shipyard’s history.
The agreement delivers an immediate base wage increase of 18% or more for union shipbuilders and establishes a contract that runs through March 8, 2031. According to the company, overall wage growth under the agreement could total 35% to 47% by the end of the contract period.
Company leadership said the pay increases are intended to strengthen recruitment and retention as Ingalls continues building major U.S. Navy programs. The Pascagoula yard produces several classes of Navy ships, including amphibious warships and destroyers, and remains a cornerstone of the nation’s naval shipbuilding capacity.
“This agreement strengthens our partnership with our represented shipbuilders and affirms our commitment to providing competitive wages and stability for our workforce,” said Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Blanchette in a statement. “The dedication and expertise of our Ingalls shipbuilders are essential to meeting the U.S. Navy’s growing demand for more ships.”
Negotiations between company leadership and union representatives concluded Feb. 12, when both sides agreed on terms to present for ratification.
The agreement was approved by members of five unions representing workers at the Pascagoula shipyard: the Pascagoula Metal Trades Council, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Office and Professional Employees International Union, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, and the United Federation of Special Police and Security Officers.
Shipyard leadership said the wage package reflects the importance of the Ingalls workforce as the Navy pushes to expand fleet capacity. The company also said the new contract is expected to support improved workforce stability and increased production throughput at the yard.
