US Steel Worker Proud To Be Mentioned In President's Speech
WEST MIFFLIN (KDKA) -- The invited guests lined up early at US Steel's Irvin Plant, nearly three hours before the event, which was inside but still chilly.
Some were led to the platform behind the stage and got a close look at President Barack Obama create, with the stroke of a pen, what he calls myRA to help workers save for the future.
As little as $25 could start one and as little as $5 per paycheck could be deducted.
KDKA's Harold Hayes: "Is that something you'd be interested in getting started?"
Employee Rex Cole: "I believe so yes. I would like to invest in myself."
"The savings plan sounds good. I mean it's a speech," added David Morgan, a 13-year employee. "We'll see if it happens with Congress and everything. The bigger thing was the jobs."
Pat Vrable is about to retire, and with all the economic uncertainty now, he hopes the plant can mean to the next generation what it meant to his.
Hayes: "Are you optimistic this could still be a stable place?"
Vrable: "Oh yes, sir. Yes, sir. Another 40 years in here, at least another 40 years."
As President Obama called for equal treatment in the workforce, he specifically mentioned Robin Burke.
Her father worked for US Steel and her grandfather worked for Union Switch and Signal. Growing up, Burke always assumed her brother would work at the plant, not her.
She is the plant safety manager.
"Well, it's a once in a lifetime opportunity that's for sure, and my family and I are just overwhelmed with pride that he would mention my dad and my grandfather and myself," said Burke.
RELATED LINKS:
Obama Orders Creation Of 'myRA' Savings Plan (1/29/14)
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