The sudden idling of the Cleveland-Cliff’s Minorca mine in late March has left many miners and their families wondering about their future. Al King, president of United Steelworkers Local 6115, said he was surprised by the speed of the announced layoffs and has been working tirelessly to secure support for extended unemployment benefits from the state.
King, who grew up knowing that employment is never certain in Iron Range mining jobs, has seen a boom-and-bust lifestyle play out over his father’s logging job and his own 30-year tenure at Minorca. However, this time around, he fears it may be more challenging for younger workers to adapt due to fewer unemployment benefits.
Kim Baasi, a grader operator who was laid off from the mine, is taking steps to tighten her belt and make ends meet. She has canceled subscriptions, cut back on her cable bill, and plans to spend more time in her garden this summer. While she is struggling with uncertainty about her future, she remains optimistic about finding new opportunities.
John Kolterman Jr., a fifth-generation miner, took a different approach when he heard the news. He parked his grader and walked away from the mine, citing concerns for younger workers who may not be prepared for the boom-and-bust lifestyle. Instead, he is focusing on finishing up his commercial driver’s license course and exploring post-retirement job opportunities.
As the Iron Range miners navigate this uncertain period, they are finding ways to stay connected with their community and look forward to a brighter future.
Source: https://www.hometownfocus.us/articles/living-with-uncertainty-hoping-for-a-return-to-production