Steelworkers Summer 2006

When I graduated from High School, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. After working at a summer resort in Iowa during the first few months, I decided to join the Navy. If I were to be in that predicament today, I’d consider the Steelworkers Summer Program.

Steelworkers’ Summer is an educational and training internship in which participants develop skills useful for union organizing by experiencing firsthand the kinds of struggles workers face while trying to win a voice at work. It is also designed to give participants an understanding and appreciation of the positive impact the union has had on their parents’ working lives.

Internships are open to young adults, 18 years of age or older. Selection preference is given to children of members of the United Steelworkers.

Steelworkers’ Summer is committed to uniting students, workers, and community activists to bring about social justice through workplace and community organizing.

Applicants should have a strong commitment to social and economic justice, as well as openness to working with a broad cross section of people. This includes people of various races, ethnicities, religions and orientations. Participants need to be people-oriented, enthusiastic, energetic, flexible and willing to work long hours on an unpredictable schedule. A college degree is not required. Previous union experience is not necessary. Volunteerism or activism is a plus.

You can find more information about this program as well as an application by going here.

I recommend it for any young person looking for an alternative way to begin a career in life.