Dickies® is hosting its 17th annual American Worker of the Year contest, which seeks out committed, hard working people who take leadership and responsibility seriously and go the extra mile to get the job done.

Workwear providerDickies® is hosting its 17th annual "American Worker of the Year" contest, which seeks out committed, hard working people who take leadership and responsibility seriously and go the extra mile to get the job done. This year’s contest wants to help restore faith and the belief in the American dream, following a recent study that showed many working-class Americans feel they are underappreciated.

Workers can enter the contest by submitting a photo and brief essay to illustrate how they represent the ideals of a true, hard working American. Stories from workers across the country will appear online for weekly voting and to pay tribute to the nominees. Previous American Worker of the Year honorees have included an oil field roughneck, farmers, builders, teachers, an electrical lineman and soldiers.

Recent findings from a national Omnibus survey show that while Americans have pride in and recognize the dedication of the working class, 72% of those surveyed feel the working class is underappreciated. Moreover, 3 in 10 adults no longer believe in the American dream. The survey also showed 90% of Americans strongly agree “I am proud of the work I do,” yet the economy has caused nearly one-third of adults to lose faith in working hard to get ahead.

The contest will recognize weekly winners and six finalists before a grand prize winner is named American Worker of the Year this fall. Contestants receiving the highest number of votes in a given week will be named Worker of the Week and receive customized Dickies garments. Six finalists will be selected by a panel of judges and will each receive $10,000 and a trip for two to the PBR World Finals, where the contest winner will be revealed on Oct. 30, 2009.

Nominations for the 2009 American Worker of the Year are accepted until June 30, 2009. For more information, visitwww.americanworkeroftheyear.com.

Source: Dickies