Steel Mills

USW Supports U.S. Steel's Investment in New Technology

Written by Tim Triplett

May 3, 2019

U.S. Steel’s plan to invest more than $1 billion in a new casting and rolling facility at its Edgar Thompson Plant in Braddock, Pa., and a new cogeneration facility at its plant in Clairton, Pa., has the support of the United Steelworkers (USW), even though the new, more efficient technology will reduce the manhours needed to make steel.

The proposed improvements will not negatively impact employment, but instead will bolster the long-term job security of about 3,000 union workers, said USW International Vice President Tom Conway, who chairs the union’s negotiations with U.S. Steel.

USW International President Leo W. Gerard applauded U.S. Steel’s decision to invest in these two Pittsburgh-area facilities. “Almost 127 years after the Battle of Homestead, U.S. Steel seems to understand that the ultimate measure of the company’s success cannot be calculated just in profits and share price,” Gerard said. “This investment demonstrates a commitment to operate in the best interests of its employees and their communities and shows respect for the part our members, their families and neighbors have played in keeping the proud tradition of steelmaking alive in the Mon Valley for over a century.”

Added Conway: “Together, these projects will reduce U.S. Steel’s carbon footprint significantly and improve regional air quality by reducing emissions of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. Just as importantly, these investments will provide much-needed job security for current employees and future generations of Steelworkers at this historic and soon-to-be much more modern integrated steelmaking complex.”

Tim Triplett

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