Labor pains at Wisconsin military truck manufacturer

OSHKOSH, Wis. — There are labor pains at one of the Fox Valley’s largest employers.

Oshkosh Corp. and union workers are at odds on a new contract, with the old one expiring Friday. Officials of the union that represents more than 3,000 members say a strike is a possibility.

Oshkosh Corp. makes the military’s tactical vehicles, including trucks. And, the company is concerned about likely cuts in defense spending.

The company is offering an 8 percent wage increase over five years. Insurance premiums would nearly double the first year of the new contract. The company would also have the right to hire temporary workers for up to six months.

Union employees tell WLUK-TV that it has helped the company flourish in recent years and wants to be rewarded.