A group of 13 interns working at the USW international headquarters visited the All-Clad plant in Canonsburg, Pa., on Monday, June 11.
The interns, who come from all over Pennsylvania, were able to see how the plant operates and interact with members of Local 3403 who manufacture the popular cookware.
“The younger generation is the future,” said Bobby McAuliffe, director of District 10, after touring the plant with the interns. “We need to mentor them, because one day they will be the future of the union.”
The USW intern program was created to give college students an inside look into the union and teach them the importance of solidarity.
To help orient the interns, many of whom have signed union cards and are paying dues to Local 3657, the group toured the All-Clad plant, where they got a behind-the-scenes look at the work USW members do.
Established in 1971, All-Clad perfected the recipe of metal melting by fusing several durable metals together. All-Clad then began producing professional quality cookware by creating “steel sandwiches” through the process of cladding.
“It’s fascinating to see how everything comes together,” said intern Gracie Brickner, a senior from the University of Pittsburgh, who is interning in the organizing department. “I’ve never been in a plant before, and seeing everyone in action puts a face to the organization we’re working for.”
In addition to its superior quality, All-Clad is also known for using American steel and keeping their products American made.
“This company is investing in our future, keeping these manufacturing jobs in Canonsburg, Pa.,” said District 10 Sub-director John Ratico. “It’s not very often you find a company that’s willing to invest in American manufacturing and use American products, and it’s greatly appreciated.”
After spending the day watching the All-Clad union members, the interns were given a lesson in the union’s history.
“I really learned the importance of solidarity and the significance in keeping manufacturing jobs in America,” said Amanda Silva, who is spending the summer working in the organizing department.
This year, the union has interns working in organizing, new media, communications, legal, membership development, and elsewhere.