Paula Uhing

Where do you work and what do you do? 

I work at Wacker Neuson (manufacturer of construction equipment) as an assembler, and currently I’m assembling track loaders.  

What roles do you serve in your local union? 

I serve as local president and was elected last year after serving as interim president. I’ve been involved with Women of Steel in Wisconsin for almost 15 years. I also help out with Rapid Response and support the Veterans of Steel committee. 

What has been your experience with Rapid Response and political activism? 

I’ve phone-banked and knocked on many, many doors in different elections. We also just had a lobby day in Madison and I was there. It’s incredibly important for members to understand the legislation that’s out there and how potentially disastrous it could be for us. I was also just involved with the Supreme Court race in Wisconsin. People need to understand who they’re voting for. 

What does “All In” mean to you? 

“All In” means you’re either in it or you’re not. You can’t be a part-time union member. You have to endorse us and speak well of us. If I ever lose my union, I will not know what to do with myself. It’s such a big part of my identity. I even talked up the union on the plane with my seatmate on the way here who asked where I was going. 

What makes you proud to be a USW member? 

I’m proud because my union is inclusive. They want us to know what we are doing, and they want to share the benefits and the wealth for everyone as well.