2008 Man of the Year
Mike was born and raised in Franklin County, Virginia and graduated from Franklin County High School.
From 1974 until 1976, he worked at the General Electric plant in Salem, Virginia where he first became a union member with IUE, Local 161. Here he had the pleasure to learn and work under then President Bobby Semones and union leaders such as James Graham, Leonard "Funky" Hodges and Mike Smith. The union leaders at Local 161 inspired Mike to get involved in his local and the labor movement.
In 1977, Mike went to work for the Mohawk plant in Salem, Virginia, now nown as Yokohoma Tire Company since 1989. Here he has been active with the United Rubberworkers/United Steelworkers, Local 1023 for the last 31 years.
Mike currently serves as President to Local 1023 for the last five years and has served in various capacities such as Shop Steward, Division Chairman Executive Board member, Pension/Insurance Chairman and Vice President. He has been part of the negotiation team for the last four terms. He is also a delegate to the Roanoke United Central Labor Council where he has served on the screening committee for possible endorsement of political candidates
Mike and his wife of 35 years, Denise Perdue Amos are the proud parents of three daughters Shilynn, Sheena and Reneigh. Son-in-laws are Anthony Brooks and David Perdue. Grandchildren are Claudia "Boo-Boo" Brook Zach Brooks and Tucker Perdue.
Hobbies include riding his four-wheeler with his family, hunting, fishing, listening to southern rock and blues music, and hanging out with his wife and family. On June 1, 2009, Mike will be retiring from the workign world and starting a new chapter in his life with his wife and grandchildren. "I have had the pleasure of being a union member since I was 19 years old, now at the age of 53, I can say that it has been a great ride."