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Quigley Goes "Undercover" at SiPi Metals Corporation

November 6, 2013

CHICAGO – Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) worked as a furnace metal pourer and chemist at SiPi Metals Corporation as part of his Undercover Congressman series. The series connects Rep. Quigley with constituents at their place of employment to better understand the challenges they face in their daily lives.

"Working alongside the dedicated crew at SiPi Metals gave me valuable insight into the types of technical training and education we have to invest in nationally to grow our manufacturing industry," said Rep. Quigley. "Thank you to everyone at SiPi Metals for such an informative day and for the work they are doing as a sustainable and socially responsible business in our district."

"Congressman Quigley's efforts in Washington and his support for keeping jobs in Chicago are greatly appreciated," said SiPi Senior Vice President George Phillips. "Having the Congressman working alongside some of the workers he represents is a true way to serve his constituency."

Congressman Mike Quigley (right) monitors molten metal as a furnace metal pourer at SiPi Metals.

Congressman Mike Quigley (right) works with SiPi Metals employees to stack metal bars weighing 25 pounds each.

As a furnace metal pourer, Rep. Quigley monitored the free flow of molten metal being transferred from furnaces into individual molds. He then spent time with employees stacking the final molded metal bars. As a chemist, he operated specialized laboratory equipment used to analyze individual metals.

Since taking office in 2009, Rep. Quigley has performed a wide range of jobs as an Undercover Congressman, including delivering mail and pizzas, assembling pinball machines, spending the day as a zookeeper at the Lincoln Park Zoo, and picking up garbage and recycling with sanitation departments.

SiPi Metals Corp. was founded in 1905 and has been in business continuously for over a century. They focus on the refining of metals from scrap generated in the electronics, chemical, photographic, and aerospace industries. The 175,000 square-foot plant in Chicago processes secondary materials for over 500 customers worldwide. The company has been recognized by the City of Chicago for its participation in energy efficiency and waste reduction management programs.

Rep. Quigley is a member of the New Democrat Coalition, which supports policies that foster growth, innovation and entrepreneurship in the manufacturing industry.

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