"I heard about the ICD program at my new employee orientation at U.S. Steel. I lived 75 miles from work, 1 hour and 25 minutes one way. There were days I went to class on my day off, which meant driving 3 hours for a 2-hour class, but I kept telling myself it'll be worth it. The computer courses helped me get through my classes and eventually pass the maintenance tests.

"Because of ICD helping me get into maintenance, when U.S. Steel eliminated my department, I had a job before I got laid off. It was well worth the time and effort. I'm now a maintenance tech at B.F. Goodrich in Tuscaloosa, Alabama."

"I have utilized the ICD benefit by means of taking customized classes at our center, continuing education courses (low-pressure boiler operator licensure), using the shops, and tuition reimbursement."

"The ICD benefit was a real game-changer because I could finish with no debt for my degree. If nothing else I feel as though my time was a good investment just to show my kids what hard work and dedication produce. I'm not too positive that I will use my degree in any real fashion, but at the end of the day I have earned it and own it."

"Education is one of the things no one can take away from you. Using ICD has been such a grateful opportunity to open doors. The mill is a great place to work, but thanks to the USW (ICD benefit) I'm able to supplement my income and potentially set my family up for success while retiring early."

“We actually did something with the ICD benefit that I believe is what it’s all about – a career development course to better our lives and careers.

“The bottom line is the ICD benefit made this possible, and that’s why we negotiated the benefit and that’s what it’s for. It’s such a great program for the Steelworkers.”

“When they mentioned TA (tuition assistance) and all the things you could achieve with the benefit, the light bulb went off. I’m so happy this benefit is there for the union members.

“It’s really a win-win situation for a Steelworker and Union member.”

“I can’t tell you enough about what a wonderful program ICD is. I wouldn’t be where I’m at today if it wasn’t for the knowledge I acquired through the benefit.

“I think a lot of people lose sight of the fact they can make money outside of their jobs and be productive. This was supposed to be a hobby and something fun for me to do, but I’ve made this work for me and my family.”

“I knew the ICD benefit was negotiated so I took advantage of it. This was a huge help with no student loans. You never know in the mining industry what’s going to happen. You need to have a backup plan.

"This wasn’t just for me, but also for my parents because I wanted to be the first person in my family to get my bachelor’s degree. Now it’s unreal knowing I also have my master’s degree, too.”

“I couldn’t have done it without funds from the ICD program. The funds allowed me to finish college and earn my bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management.”

“With advancements in technology, not only for use in everyday life but also in manufacturing it is vitally important to stay ahead of the game.  ICD has given our employees the tools and funding to continually enhance their skill set at their own pace and at times that work with in their schedule.  Furthermore, ICD has also been a great opportunity for the company and union to work collaboratively in creating courses that meet the needs of our students and our company.”

“I just love the ICD program. I utilized the program from the get-go. From cooking to finance classes, I even learned bike maintenance and sign language. I even completed seven Spanish tutoring sessions with Rosetta Stone using my ICD benefit.”

“People come here to have a backup plan. The original reason for Career Development was if something happens to their job in the mill, they can find another job.”