GRANITE CITY, Ill. – Some thought steel manufacturing jobs would never come back, but on Friday hope seemed alive in Granite City, where a steel industry job fair sought out new, and old, employees.
It's no secret that the city has had fewer jobs lately and harder economic times. In its heyday, steel plants like Granite City Works were a great source of pride for the small town.
If the foot traffic in one area is any indication, better days are soon to come.
"This a big deal 500 extra jobs. Steel, money yeah this is a big deal," said Chris Parker, a resident of Centreville.
Dozens of people came from across the bi-state with their resumes in hand to the U.S Steel career fair in hopes to get a job.
"They need 500, I just need to be one of them,” said Parker. “I can be 499. I just need be to be one of them."
For Parker, seeking employment was one of the reasons why he showed up, but pressure to provide for his family was another reason.
"Two little girls and one on the way," he said.
Parker, like many others, just wants a chance to get a better wage and job.
"Just one foot in the door and that's all you need," Parker said.
But, that door Parker spoke of shut when U.S. Steel idled the plant in 2015. More than a thousand jobs lost, many left to survive off of their unemployment benefits.
Now, a resurgence is happening after President Donald Trump announced a tariff on imported aluminum and steel, prophesizing a future demand for American metal.
"This right here bringing 500 jobs back is going to do a lot for the economy,” Parker said.
But, some ask, is it too little too late? They’re wondering just how many of the men who lost their jobs have since retired or moved on to greater pastures.
In the meantime, U.S. Steel is looking for people to work in production, maintenance and management among other positions.
At the job fair, Parker expected an interview on the spot.
"Not today," he said.
He was handed paperwork to apply online. So, for now, he'll wait for his phone to ring
"More work to be done, so it's not over until someone gives you a call back,” Parker said.
It's still unclear when exactly these 500 jobs will be filled and when people will report to work. 5 On Your Side did reach out to the company to get those answers but we did not hear back.
