UAW Local 1002 Strikes at Bradford White Plant

Members of United Auto Workers Local 1002 walked off the job at the Bradford White manufacturing plant in Middleville, Michigan, at midnight on September 16, 2026. This action marks the first strike at the facility since 1978 and follows a breakdown in contract negotiations that began on June 22.

Representing over 1,200 employees, the union is demanding wages that keep pace with inflation, noting that some workers currently earn less than $21 per hour. Additional demands include improved health insurance for spouses, increased paid time off, and better workplace treatment. Local 1002 President Jessica Vazquez stated that workers seek a fair share of the company's growth into a multi-billion dollar conglomerate.

UAW President Shawn Fain characterized the strike as a result of corporations failing to take care of the workers who generate their profits. In response, Bradford White stated it remains committed to resolving the dispute while maintaining its customer commitments and focusing on the future of the Middleville facility.