Ingalls Shipbuilding Workers Ratify Historic Wage Agreement

New 5-year contract includes largest single wage increase in company history.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:06pm

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Workers at HII's Ingalls Shipbuilding division in Pascagoula, Mississippi have ratified new collective bargaining agreements that will provide union-represented shipbuilders with an immediate 18% or higher base wage increase, the largest single wage hike in the company's history. The new 5-year contract extends through 2031 and will result in overall wage growth of 35-47% for Ingalls' unionized workforce.

Why it matters

This landmark labor agreement is expected to help Ingalls Shipbuilding, a major employer in the Pascagoula region, attract and retain skilled workers needed to meet the U.S. Navy's growing demand for new ships. The wage increases reflect the essential role Ingalls' unionized workforce plays in delivering advanced naval vessels.

The details

The new collective bargaining agreement was reached between Ingalls Shipbuilding leadership and five union representatives, including the Pascagoula Metal Trades Council, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Office and Professional Employees International Union, International Association of Machinists, and the United Federation of Special Police and Security Officers. The contract negotiations concluded on February 12, 2026, with both sides reaching consensus on the proposals that were then ratified by union members.

  • The new 5-year contract extends through March 8, 2031.
  • Negotiations between Ingalls and union representatives concluded on February 12, 2026.

The players

HII

America's largest shipbuilder, delivering defense capabilities including ships, unmanned systems, and advanced technologies to the U.S. Navy and allied forces.

Ingalls Shipbuilding

A division of HII that is the largest producer of unmanned underwater vehicles for the U.S. Navy and a major manufacturer of naval vessels.

Brian Blanchette

President of Ingalls Shipbuilding.

Pascagoula Metal Trades Council (PMTC)

One of the five union representatives that negotiated and ratified the new collective bargaining agreement with Ingalls Shipbuilding.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)

One of the five union representatives that negotiated and ratified the new collective bargaining agreement with Ingalls Shipbuilding.

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What they’re saying

“This agreement strengthens our partnership with our represented shipbuilders and affirms our commitment to providing competitive wages and stability for our workforce.”

— Brian Blanchette, President, Ingalls Shipbuilding

What’s next

The new contract will go into effect immediately, providing Ingalls Shipbuilding's unionized workforce with the historic wage increases.

The takeaway

This landmark labor agreement demonstrates Ingalls Shipbuilding's commitment to supporting its skilled workforce and ensuring the company can continue delivering critical naval assets to the U.S. military. The significant wage increases are expected to boost recruitment and retention, enabling Ingalls to accelerate production and meet growing demand.