Laborers’ District Council of Western Pennsylvania

Heavy/Highway Local Union #1058

Michael J. Huber

“When a major project is completed and my kids see everything when it’s finished, I get to say that ‘your dad’ helped build that.” That feeling of accomplishment and sense of pride is what helps keep laborers like Michael Huber of Whitehall interested in his job—that and good pay and benefits as negotiated by his union, the Laborers’ District Council of Western Pennsylvania.

Michael became a laborer in 1991 after his job at Westinghouse as a machine operator was outsourced overseas. Like many other men and women in this region, Michael did not want to relocate and instead chose to find a new job that would be supported by a strong local union. Heavy/Highway Local Union #1058 fit the bill.

Over the past 18 years, Michael has worked on such prominent Pittsburgh area projects as the Fort Pitt Bridge Rehabilitation, the North Shore Connector, the Liberty Tunnel Interchange, the Mt. Washington Transit Tunnel and State Route 60 leading to Pittsburgh International Airport, among many others.

Whether it’s rehabilitating highways and bridges or constructing new roadways, the work can be very physical. Such activity, however, has never been a problem for him. In fact, Michael has always been in good shape as evidenced by his previous participation in national bodybuilding competitions.

From 1974 to 1990, he competed in such competitions as Mr. North America, Mr. Pennsylvania, Mr. Pittsburgh and others. His dedication and commitment to his physical condition earned him a contract with GNC and for several years he could be seen on many GNC Challenge Vitamin Labels.

Because being a competitive bodybuilder is all consuming, Michael no longer competes, but the job keeps him in shape nonetheless. By the time he goes home to his family at the end of the day, he’s already done more exercise than just about any office worker. It’s one of the things he likes about his job. He also likes the diversity that comes with being a laborer.

“As a laborer working out of the hall, you get to do so many different things that everyday is different,” he explains. “The key is to stay in shape and keep your contractors happy. If you don’t, you can’t expect to work.”

When he is not working, Michael enjoys spending time with his wife, Sandy, and coaching soccer for their children, Michael, 12, and Haley, 9. When at work, he enjoys the camaraderie of working in a union environment and being involved in union issues. In 2000, he was elected a union delegate and represented Local #1058 at its international convention in Las Vegas. He also serves as a union steward.

“When I someday look back on my career, I want to be remembered as a good union steward who always worked safe and protected my union brothers and sisters,” he says.

Chances are he will also be remembered for being in great shape.

Combined Funds:

(412) 263-0900

District Council:

(412) 391-1712

Training Center:

(800) 442-8868