I once worked for a Dow Corning subsidiary in Florida, manufacturing composite water and sewer pipe from 3 to 13 feet in diameter. I was a certified welder-burner, well-paid for the time and place, and the work was fast-paced and fun, especially the crew of mostly deep South men that I worked with. I had to pick up the "chew" habit to fit in. Administration was involved, and the foremen vied to put together the most productive team, so as not to be the choke point. The teamwork was inspirational. I worked the 12-hour night shift for the pay differential. 90 degrees, 100% humidity, a half hour lunch break and that was it. It was soo macho.

I would like to see Dow Corning put that plant to use. I considered Dow to be a good employer, paying decent local wages.