Mariano, Bill, 2011 May 9
Scope and Contents
Interviewed by Jennifer Matthews. Mariano discusses how he moved to Newark, Delaware, in July 1969 to find work at the Chrysler plant and how he was hired to the Mopar parts division of the plant in August 1969. He explains his work at both the Mopar plant and the Chrysler assembly line and the differences between the jobs. He also explains his switch to a management position as a foremen and a supervisor in the paint shop and later the body shop. Daily plant life is discussed with regards to the monotony of jobs and the use of drugs and alcohol on the job. Safety issues and accidents in the plant are also detailed as well as his active relationship with co-workers now that the plant is closed. (part 2) Mariano explains the MOA (Modern Operating Agreement) and how it was implemented in the plant. He discusses how working at the plant affected family life and the difficulties of running a family while working at the plant. He discusses his reactions to the plant closing and his feelings about Chrysler now that the plant has closed.
Dates
- Creation: 2011 May 9
Biographical / Historical
Worked at the Chrysler plant from August 1969 until August 2006, with a gap in employment during his service in Vietnam from 1970-1972, and again during a two year layoff from 1980-1982. While with the Mopar parts division he worked as a pick packer, on the UPS package line, in the exports division, and as a sawyer. After returning in 1982 he worked in the paint division as a pool person, and was later promoted to a foreman in the paint division and body shop. He held numerous positions within the union, including shop steward, committeeman, and vice president.
Repository Details
Part of the University of Delaware Library Special Collections Repository