Brian Callow

Brian Callow
United Steelworkers Local 318, Full-time Local Vice President
Hometown: Staten Island, N.Y.
Local Number 318, USW District # 4
Years as USW Member: 22

What is unusual about your hometown, workplace or job?

We used to have the biggest garbage dump in the world at one time. There were only two man-made things that could be seen from space: That, and the Great Wall of China.

What does this year’s theme, “Everybody’s Union” mean to you?

Even though we are called the Steelworkers, we are so much more than just steel workers. We do everything.

What issues will be important when your Local’s contract expires?

We are the biggest amalgamated local in the district, and we have 52 contracts. We want to see bigger pay increases than we’ve seen in the past, that’s important for everybody. And new member organizing. We need time so that new employees know that the union is the reason why they have the wages and benefits that they have.

What’s your go-to dance move?

None, really. Side to side. It’s easy. 

Every leader has a good tune to walk out to when introduced. What’s your walk-up song?

“Hell’s Bells” by AC/DC. 

Who would you most like to have dinner with, and why: Jennifer Lopez, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, George R.R. Martin, Liz Cheney, Michael Jordan, or Drake?

Michael Jordan. He is the greatest of all time. And I’d like to stop the comparisons to LeBron. 

What things have you done or hope to do while you’re here?

 It’s been a few years since I’ve seen anybody. You start to realize that you miss so many people. It’s a good feeling to see everybody again.

Have you yet decided how you will put the convention to work when you return home?

I’d like to see more internal organizing. The people who are coming from our local, I hope they get a sense of pride in the union. I am very passionate about the USW, and I hope that other members can grow that same sense of passion and pride.

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