United Association of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 248 Business Manager Ben Collier joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the challenges of transitioning coal miners to alternative industries.
Local 248 represents about 540 members in eastern Kentucky.
Collier talked about Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR), a collaborative hub of leaders and businesses partnering to bring jobs to Appalachian communities. Part of the organization’s mission is to create alternative job opportunities for existing coal miners, he said.
Collier also discussed the $5.8 billion Ford electric battery campus being built in Hardin, Kentucky and how it will create work opportunities for his members who are willing to travel.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics.