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MARQUETTE -- Northern Michigan University and its Technical, Office and Professional union, UAW Local 1950, signed a memorandum of understanding on Jan. 24 that will accelerate the previously negotiated wage increase timeline by more than three years.
The MOU increases the minimum hourly rate from $12.75 to $15.10, effective immediately. About 70% of members will receive some boost in hourly pay.
"We are very pleased that we were able to work together with TOP leadership to help some of our employees who need it the most," said Rhea Dever, assistant vice president-Human Resources, in a news release. "There was no wage reopener in the approved contract. However, we didn't want to wait until that expires at the end of June in 2026 to address this important issue that has been a focus of conversation on campus for the last several months.
"The MOU provided the opportunity to create a positive impact within the framework of the current agreement."
New hire rates will also increase immediately for each classification: 4A, 4B and 4C.
The previously approved 30 cent-per-hour increases will apply for the remainder of the current contract.
"This is one key factor in helping to attract and retain the talent we have here at NMU," Dever said.
After union leadership signed the MOU on Tuesday, they communicated the details to members on Wednesday during a live meeting and via email communications.