Nov 6, 2014 2 min read

The story begins in 1990. The vision of creating a super complex for the mining and processing of coal was beginning the second phase. Enlow Fork was the name the West Finley Township mine was given. In July 1991, I joined the elite group of miners who worked there, all handpicked from the tri-state area, and in all of my 38 years of underground experience, I have never worked with a finer, harder-working and dedicated group of people.

Initial employment began with three days of training. One of these days included your spouse. You learned about the benefits of working at Enlow Fork – a salary, 401(k) plan and match, a pension and health care coverage. All of the benefits were outstanding. What was most important to me and my wife were the pension and health care benefits.

The main point that was stressed during the initial training was how important it was that Enlow Fork remain union-free. The benefits we were receiving were better than what union workers had.

As the years went by, due to excellent management, the best in mining technology and a superior work force, Consol Energy’s Bailey/Enlow Fork complex far exceeded expectations and became the premier mining complex in the world, not only in terms of production, but also safety. Several times, there would be whispers about a union and meetings with employees would ensue. Once again, we would be reminded of how better off we were being union-free. There was never the suggestion of fine-print details that would not guarantee our benefits. The promise was that you could retire at age 55 with at least 10 years of employment and an adjusted pension benefit and health care coverage for the rest of your life. Period.

Now, most of the original workforce is nearing retirement or has already retired. Sadly, we now realize that the hard work and loss of memorable times with family and friends due to excessive overtime and the loyalty we felt toward Consol Energy was all for naught. The “promise” of health care coverage in retirement has been cast aside, along with the people who made Consol Energy what it is today.

I have been known for keeping my word. I guess I anticipated that Consol Energy would do the same.

Allan H. Jack Sr.

Washington