Unions representing striking Asarco workers are set to meet with the company Thursday. About 1,800 mine workers in Arizona and Texas went on strike in mid-October.

Prior to the strike, they’d been working without a new contract since last November. Karla Schumann with the Teamsters Local 104 union said they’re cautiously optimistic.

“We have unfair labor practice charges filed and we hope to be able to get a good bargaining session in," Schumann. "Basically we’re seeking a fair contract and to get an agreement that is palatable to the members and fair to all parties.”

The employees are seeking better pay and benefits. Many of them haven’t received a pay raise in almost a decade.