When GE leadership decided to implement the two tier pay structure they predicted the resentment that would occur between the two groups. However, in their mind, they calculated the conflicts would be insignificant in comparison with their long term financial goals of lower cost labor. What they didn't consider was the high cost of employee turnover and the cost of constant training. They didn't consider the high cost of reduced quality. Now that bean counters and sourcing leaders are running manufacturing plants, the lower paid tier is becoming more attractive. They only look at measurable numbers and are unable to see the reality of their decisions. The problem is with leadership. Not the two tiered groups that are simply trying to provide income for their families.
Well put, @O8O2caL-3ftw. This is something I have seen happen over and over again, as very few look beyond immediate savings.