Steel Industry and Labor Leadership Highlighted in Northeast Ohio

Pat Gallagher, President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation and a retired member of the United Steelworkers, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss new job openings at Cleveland Cliffs and reflect on the evolution of labor contracts in the steel industry.

Gallagher began by discussing the announcement that Cleveland Cliffs plans to hire 200 new employees at its plant, breaking a hiring moratorium in place since August 2024. Many of the openings are the result of retirements, part of an industry cycle that tends to see major hiring booms and lulls. Gallagher highlighted the importance of injecting new energy into the plant and welcomed the opportunities these jobs offer the workforce and the region.

Contract negotiations also emerged as a focal point. Gallagher offered historical context, noting his longstanding involvement in restructuring and negotiating steel contracts dating back to the early 2000s. He discussed the September expiration of the basic steel contract and its potential impact on the industry. Reflecting on the progress made in improving steelworkers’ quality of life, Gallagher expressed pride in the contracts that have enabled members to earn solid wages and benefits, even amid challenging times such as mass company bankruptcies during the 1990s and early 2000s.

Finally, Gallagher shifted the conversation toward political change led by workers, highlighting the increasing number of union members pursuing public office in Ohio. Gallagher detailed candidate training initiatives from the state AFL-CIO and pointed to local examples, such as Davida Russell, a seasoned union member running for a state legislative seat. He stressed the value of having leaders with real-life labor experience making governmental decisions, and workers stepping up to advocate for their communities and the labor movement, not only in Northeast Ohio but across the country.

For more from Gallagher, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast above.