Albert Neal

Albert G. Neal worked a total of 17 years at CF&I Steel starting in the Open Hearth Furnace in 1965 after completing four years in the US Navy. Albert later was transferred to other areas, including the 40-inch mill, 14-Inch mill, Rail Mill and later the Main Office. He then left the mill to start a career at the US Post Office as a mail handler.  After two years at the Post Office, Albert returned to CF&I to begin an apprenticeship as an Armature Winder and graduated October 25, 1973. According to Works Manager David Appel, Albert was the first African American to be accepted and finish the apprentice program at CF&I Steel.

Always active in the Pueblo community, in the early 1970s, Albert and fellow co-worker Robert Stovall coached the Pueblo Banner Football program for five years. Here, Albert mentored young football players, many of whom continued to play football at the high school and college level. Albert has been an active member of his local church, Church of Christ, and has been a Mason with the Eureka Lodge #2 since 1975. He was a star of his softball program, a pitcher for the CF&I softball league, also would pitch for the Rail Mill and Mail of Clerks teams from 1970-1984. He is currently a member of Pueblo Eagle Aerie #3367, American Legion Post 02. For many years, he was also an honorary member of County Sheriffs of Colorado program. In 1978, Albert and his brother Terrence were instrumental in planning and shaping Pueblo Juneteenth, an organization for which Albert would serve as president for eight years.

Laid off from CF&I in 1984, Albert returned to work at the US Post Office from which he would retire in 2006. He currently spends his days entertaining his grandkids and enjoys his season tickets to local school basketball and football games. He also finds great joy in attending CSU-Pueblo basketball and football games. He loves the City of Pueblo and remains involved in the Pueblo Juneteenth organization. He is a proud brick holder and member of the Steelworks Center of the West.

A special memory I have of my grandfather was taking a trip with my two sisters to Hot Springs, Arkansas to attend his high school reunion. It was a special week, being able to meet his old classmates, eat amazing soul food, staying in a top hotel, getting spoiled, (obviously), and most importantly see him so happy.   

My grandpa has worked tremendously hard his whole life and he continues to this day. He has taught me so much about life, love, and good values.  

Nomination submitted by Brianna Neal