ARNOLD AIR FORCE BASE, TENN. -- The membership of the Air Engineering Metal Trades Council (AEMTC) voted today to accept a new collective bargaining agreement with the Aerospace Testing Alliance (ATA).

Members voted 292 to 180 in favor of the agreement.

The AEMTC represents 11 craft unions; the agreement will continue through Sept. 30, 2015.

"Both the company and the union have put much time and effort into working through this agreement and doing the best they could to balance the needs of the workers and AEDC," ATA General Manager Steve Pearson said. "I'm proud of the team and the work done by both sides."

AEMTC President, Jimmy Nance, agreed.

"I am happy we were able to reach an agreement," Nance said. "We looked at some difficult issues, and overall, I think our membership is pleased with what we did.

"Our craft work force is very proud of the work they do and the contributions they make to our nation's defense through the testing done at AEDC. They are dedicated to their jobs and are the best at what they do. I'd say they are one of the highest skilled work forces in this country," Nance said.

"I also want to thank all of the committees for the long days and late nights and all of the effort that went into making this happen. I want to thank all the members who voted - it was the largest voting percentage we've ever had."

About 665 AEMTC represented employees work for ATA. The company employs 1,715 people and is one of middle Tennessee's largest employers.

ATA became the primary contractor at Arnold Air Force Base on Oct. 1, 2003.