Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) was recently informed that his efforts to keep Alcoa and the 1200 jobs they provide in Cleveland was successful.  Kucinich contacted UAW Local 1050, Defense Appropriations Subcommittee ChairmanJohn Murtha (D-PA), Members of the Senate and Alcoa and Lockheed Martin executives to ensure that Alcoa Cleveland would remain operable after learning of a crack in a 50,000 ton press.

“This is great news for Cleveland and Northeast Ohio.  Too many companies race to the bottom and export their skilled labor jobs oversees.  Working hard with the United Auto Workers Local 1050 and Appropriations Chairman John Murtha (D-PA), we proved to Alcoa and Lockheed that Cleveland is the best place to find a skilled and motivated labor force.  We welcome this renewed investment,” said Kucinich.

In September of 2008, the 50,000 ton press at Alcoa Forged and Cast Products was cracked rendering the press inoperable and putting at risk 1200 valuable jobs.  Alcoa estimated a cost of $68 million to fix the press and keep the Alcoa in compliance with their subcontracting requirements to Lockheed Martin. 

Alcoa recently informed Kucinich of plans to rebuild and modernize the 50,000 ton press that had cracked putting at risk the company’s operations in Cleveland

 “Alcoa Cleveland will remain here and continue to provide good paying jobs for the foreseeable years to come,” added Kucinich.