Brothers and Sisters,
As we move forward, we are making our union and our company the best in the world. We will
continue to focus on building the best quality union product. We have the skills and knowledge
to build any product that comes to our plant. We have proven this since 1979. This is why Mt.
Holly DTNA is the best truck building plant in Carolina’s and in the world. We take pride in our
company and in our union. We realize when the company is profitable this gives us longevity
and job security. The union and company are working together to achieve our goals for the
company and the workers at our facility. We realize we need to work together to achieve our
goals. Thank all of you for your hard work and dedication to this company and your union. What
we have accomplished would not be possible without your hard work.
Since we ratified this contract, this membership has received a 13% wage increase and an
additional .56 cent wage increase from the (COLA) Coast of Living Adjustment, $5,300 dollars
profit sharing, $1,350.00 dollars Attendance Bonuses and additional $450.00 attendance bonus
will be paid last week of this month. We were able to accomplish this because of your hard
work and standing with your UAW leadership in solidarity.
I would be the first to tell you neither our union nor our company are perfect. We can always
find ways to improve. But we strive every day to make our union and company great. Over the
years this company has helped us to provide a good living for our families. Our union has
negotiated some of the best wages, benefits and health care insurance for this membership.
Criticizing the union and company will not help us achieve our goals going forward. I
encourage you to use some of that same energy to help us make our company and our union
better. This is the only way we will be able to accomplish our goals.
I want to thank you for your support and allowing me to serve as your President.
We win only when we stand together in Solidarity.

In Solidarity,
Ricky McDowell
President UAW Local 5285

Contract Books: We have sent the company the final proof for the company to start printing
the contract books. I will keep you updated.