"Let my mistake, be your teacher”
Submitted by Theresa Holmes
Safety Advocate, Kina Repp, from Washington State, brought many of us to tears as she recounted her heart wrenching story of that tragic day in Alaska. One could almost feel the excruciating pain, the horror and the sheer panic endured as 
Kina described in detail the events that unfolded on her first day of employment. She lost her entire arm while cleaning a conveyor that a coworker had turned on. The injury, Kina states, could have been avoided had she questioned the process.
Her emotional story included the ripple effect suffered by family, friends and coworkers as a result of her accident. Fortunate to have survived she states “I get something not everyone gets - a second chance”.
After listening to Kina’s presentation several members of the USW Local 7687 Women of Steel Committee approached her and extended an invitation for dinner. She cordially accepted and met with us after work one evening. Another Woman of Steel member, Tracy Hess, unfortunately fell ill and could not join us. Conversations of family, work and other topics were shared as though we had been friends forever.
Kina’s vivacity for life is infectious, her sense of humor, beyond compare! The evening ended with goodbyes, hugs and promises of staying in touch.
With her effervescent personality, courage and strength Kina travels the world to inspire all of us as she stresses the importance of on the job training and safety.
Kina arrived as a safety advocate but departed a WONDERFUL friend. We thank you Kina for sharing your story and also thank BAE for bringing you to us.
The Women of Steel Committee hope that your travels are safe and that you find your way back to our beautiful state of Pennsylvania.
Click Here to read more about Kina.
This is just one of so many things USW's amazing members do every day to give back to our communities. If you or your local are doing good things in your community, we want to hear about them. Click Here to share video and photos with us and don’t forget to use the #USWCares hashtag when you post your stories on social media. If you or your local is doing this kind of work, please submit a nomination for a Jefferson Awards at usw.org/uswcares. Don't forget to shout out @Steelworkers!