by Mike Hall, May 15, 2008

Several thousand Detroit-area school kids will get a sneak peak at the 70th annual AFL-CIO Union Industries Show tomorrow when, before the doors open to the public, they get a preview of the more than 300 exhibits and interactive games at the Cobo Center.

The 2008 America@Work show, sponsored by AFL-CIO Union Label and Service Trades Department (UL&STD), runs through Sunday. It spotlights the skills and services of union workers throughout America and the Made-in-the-USA products they produce. The displays feature the latest technology and union craftsmanship.

Skilled union workers will explain the jobs they perform and answer questions from visitors. Members of the Air Line Pilots (ALPA) and National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) will give visitors an in-the-cock-pit and behind-the-radar-scope look at the jobs in the aviation industry. Stagehands from the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) will lift the curtain on how theater and movie magic is created.

There will be special demonstrations by teachers and trainers from the major craft unions’ apprenticeship programs designed to help young men and women who are interested in careers. Scheduled sessions include presentations from the Bricklayers (BAC), Electrical Workers (IBEW), Plasterers and Cement Masons (OP&CMIA), Iron Workers, Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), Plumbers and Pipe Fitters (UA), United Union of Roofers and Waterproofers and Sheet Metal Workers (SMWIA).

A union show in Detroit wouldn’t be complete without UAW-made cars and trucks. The latest models from Daimler Chrysler, Ford, General Motors and Saturn will be on display along with concept cars of the future and several Indy circuit racers. It also wouldn’t be complete without some Motown sound, which—along with rock and roll, country and jazz—will be provided by members of the Musicians (AFM).

Throughout the show’s three-day run, there will be drawings for valuable prizes, including a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, appliances, household goods and groceries.

If you’re in Detroit, check it out. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday. For more information, including the history of the Union Industries Show and photos from past shows, click here.   

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