Unexpected UAW Strike Shuts Down Kentucky Truck Plant, Affecting Nearly 9,000 Ford Workers

In an unexpected turn of events, UAW President Shawn Fain announced a surprise strike late Wednesday, impacting an estimated 9,000 workers at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant located in Louisville. The strike, initiated by the United Auto Workers (UAW) union, was reportedly prompted by frustrations over the lack of progress during negotiations at the bargaining table.

Todd Dunn, the president of UAW Local 862, disclosed to the Free Press that he received a call to attend a meeting at 6:10 p.m. and was in the process of coordinating the walkout with the plant’s workforce. The evening shift was scheduled to commence at 6 p.m. Dunn stated, “We’re being chosen to be the next arm of leverage in an international strike. We’re being called on by our leadership. It’s time to stand up and do our duty.”

Dunn further emphasized that the approximately 9,000 UAW members were well-prepared for such an event and were determined to support the strike’s success. With minimal warning, thousands of employees left their positions at 6:30 p.m., just minutes after union representatives traversed the facility, halted production lines, and instructed workers to exit the premises peacefully, a source within the plant confirmed to the Free Press.

Declared on Social Media

Notably, the Kentucky Truck Plant specializes in manufacturing the Ford F-Series Super Duty, Ford Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator, with the Super Duty being a highly profitable product for the Dearborn-based automaker. The UAW issued an alert on social media platform Twitter at 5:44 p.m., which garnered limited engagement before being removed. The alert read, “Breaking: The 8,700 UAW members at Ford’s iconic and extremely profitable Kentucky Truck Plant have joined the Stand Up Strike after Ford refuses to make further movement in bargaining. Workers are walking off the job right now. STAND UP!” Later at 6:30 p.m., the UAW reposted the same message, reaffirming the strike.

UAW President Shawn Fain talks Ford Kentucky truck plant strike and where they stand on day 27

This surprise strike represents one of the most impactful moves against any of the major automakers, targeting high-profit products and taking place without prior notice. The UAW strike against Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis began after the expiration of their contract at 11:59 p.m. on September 14. This strike has led to more than 20,000 autoworkers picketing nationwide, resulting in the shutdown of auto plants and parts warehouses, subsequently causing a ripple effect of additional layoffs among car manufacturers and their suppliers.

Curious to learn more? Explore our articles on Mr. Business Magazine