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Ernest R. "Billy" Thompson is serving his third term as Director of District 8. He was first elected to that post in November 1997, re-elected in 2001, and re-elected by acclamation in 2005.

Thompson began working as a laborer at SKF Industries in Glasgow, Ky., in 1967, and in 1969 became a charter member of USW Local 7461 at SKF. He served the local in many positions, including two terms as president. He served as his local's representative to the area Central Labor Council, and was elected to the Kentucky AFL-CIO executive board, where he served for three terms. He also served as education program director for the University of Kentucky Center for Labor Education and Research.

Thompson was appointed to the USW staff in 1977, and served as District 8 education coordinator for 16 years. He chairs negotiations with AK Steel (Ashland, Ky.) and Newport News Shipbuilding.

Director Thompson has become widely known as "The Education Director." His strong commitment to service, educate, organize and mobilize in District 8 has resulted in unprecedented gains for District 8 membership.

Headquarters - Frankfort, KY

USW District 8

85 C. Michael Davenport Blvd, Suite B

Frankfort, KY 40601

502-875-3332 - Telephone

502-875-2917 - FAX

¨       State(s): KY, MD, VA, WV

USW District 8 Web Site