Steelworkers Reach Agreement with Marathon Petroleum, Avoiding National Strike

The deal sets wage standards that could apply to 30,000 oil workers across the country.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The United Steelworkers union reached a four-year agreement with Marathon Petroleum, a major refiner, setting a standard of wage increases and other priorities that could apply to 30,000 oil workers nationwide and averting a potential national strike.

Why it matters

The agreement between the USW and Marathon Petroleum establishes a pattern that will likely be followed by other oil companies, impacting wages and working conditions for a significant portion of the U.S. refining industry workforce.

The details

The agreement includes 'strong wage increases and other national priorities,' according to the USW. It came after two weeks of negotiations that began before the previous collective bargaining agreement was set to expire on January 31. The two parties had not reached a deal by the deadline, but agreed to extend bargaining and avoid a walkout.

  • The previous collective bargaining agreement was set to expire on January 31, 2026.
  • Negotiations between the USW and Marathon Petroleum began before the January 31 deadline and lasted for two weeks.

The players

United Steelworkers (USW)

A labor union representing 30,000 oil workers across the country, including at facilities that account for two-thirds of the United States' refining capacity.

Marathon Petroleum

An Ohio-based company that is primarily a refiner and one of the largest oil companies in the United States.

Mike Smith

Chair of the USW's national oil bargaining program.

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What’s next

The agreement now goes to local bargaining units for ratification.

The takeaway

This agreement sets an important precedent for wages and working conditions in the U.S. refining industry, demonstrating the power of collective bargaining and the ability of unions to secure favorable terms for their members even in the face of potential strikes.