Thats when the bottom fell out
. We didnt get the new contract. We had been in effect transferring our very existence to other plants within the company, and had been training our replacements as well. I began the job hunt immediately, sending probably 50+ resumes out at a rate of 5-10 a week, for over a month. Durring that month, as things went from an environment of excitment and a strong team mentality, to a cut-throat, everyone for themselves mindset...we were canabalizing each other in an effort to stay employed. I was moved from a higher internal position to a foctory grunt assignment. I had held a similar spot 6 years ago when I began, but through hard work, effort, determination, and application of my work ethic, I was promoted several times. I got the opportunity to work with my mind and no tmy back for once. I was in a good spot and poised for even further advancement when the news came that we were all going to be let go at some point. as work waned, and my function slowly got transferred to a site in another state, my team was broken up, and I was moved to the afore mentioned general labor position.I dont mind working hard. I dont mind having to get my hands dirty, but not this way. I had worked too damn hard.
. So I decided enough was enough.I found a manufacturing plant in the Ohio valley, and put my name in. After a few interviews, I was provided a job offer, which I accepted. That in and of itself is a great thing considering how very many people in this area are losing their jobs. But the real win in my mind is that the position is with a privately owned,9 digit income company, who has had 8 back-to-back years of growth, and is poised to take the operation to the next level...and at the end of the day, we are making good 'ol, 'merican made goods.
Manufacturing is supposedly a dying industry in America. Indeed, Washington has regulated many manufacturers out of business, sending good jobs overseas. But I think there is going to be a rennaissance of sorts in mfg in America. It is a good trade, where skill and intelect is as valuable as it is in medicine, law, or other white collar industries. People who are willing to leant the ropes, and get their hands dirty, can be well paid for an honest days work. And we are a nation of workers waiting for the opportunity.
Im not trying to brag about finding work, or trying to villify the government. Im trying to just say that the right attitude, and puttign forth effort can pay off. I am proof. It can be done. We can do it.
-Drew
