Charlie Ross:  

After graduating from the hallowed halls of good old St. Mikes I left Hamady Bros. for a job in the factory. Since the folks couldn't afford to send me to university, I pursued a skilled trades apprenticeship. I figured I'd let General Motors foot my education bill. I completed a Die Maker apprenticeship at Chevy Frame & Stamping (now Flint Metal Center) on Bristol Rd. in 1971. My beautiful bride, Kathy Fischer (St. Agnes), and I were married in 1968. We have three beautiful and intelligent daughters (I am going to heaven since I have already put in my purgatory time - helped raise three girls) and five wonderful grandkids who all live within ten miles! We are fortunate! Careerwise, I became involved in my union, serving seven years as committeeman and 14 yrs. as apprentice coordinator, which I thoroughly enjoyed. During those years I chaired several area apprentice committees, including 9 yrs. as the chair of the state apprentice committee and served on various advisory boards at Mott CC and the Michigan Virtual Automotive College. Very rewarding. I also participated in school career days, spreading the word about the opportunities in skilled trades. I once did a career day presentation at the Flint School of Choice (our school!). It looked so much smaller but was in excellent condition. What a trip. The room I was assigned to was ...Expand for more