PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- This week, the United Steel Workers (USW) are convening their 'Women of Steel' group. The conference attracts members from around the world, with nearly 1,000 women in attendance.

Monday morning's opening plenary brought together Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM), and USW President Leo Gerard, to name a few speakers.

Wasserman Schultz reminded the group that "making stuff really does matter" and for the United States to move forward, it means building on manufacturing's success and having strong trade laws.

She also mentioned the importance of the U.S. auto parts case in relation to trade laws. Last year, President Obama announced a World Trade Organization (WTO) suit against China to address unfairly imposed duties on U.S. auto exports, arguing the duties violated international trade rules.

The auto parts case is near and dear to many Women of Steel, as their plants are part of the U.S. auto supply chain. It's also important to the Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM), as our field organizers and staff spent countless hours both lobbying Congress and encouraging constituents to do the same.

Following the plenary, attendees began several days of workshops and classes focused on economics, politics, and local union functions. AAM Staff hosted a workshop on trade issues and shared information about how the U.S. needs a National Manufacturing Strategy to address currency manipulation and how AAM's work supporting international trade cases have paid off for America’s workers.  Workshop attendees shared personal stories and agreed on the importance of leveling the playing field for all workers.

Pictured: (Top) Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz addresses conference attendees. (Right) AAM Field Coordinator Meghan McKeefry conducts a discussion about U.S. trade deficit.

AAM Field Coordinator Rachel Bennett Steury contributed to this piece.