Insulators Local 17 JATC graduation rate hits 98 percent

Robert McGuckin, Training Coordinator for  Heat and Frost Insulators Local 17 Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee,  joined America's Work Force Union Podcast and talked about the JATC's impressive 98 percent graduation record among its apprentices, as part of National Apprenticeship Week (which ran from Nov. 14-20).

McGuckin believes the JATC's high graduation rate could be attributed to the competitive wages and benefits of Local 17 and the wide variety of available jobs in the Chicago area. In addition, he said, the Local's comparatively low retirement age is a significant selling point as well.

He discussed the benefits of the apprenticeship program and talked about Local 17 training center, which is one of the largest Insulator training centers in North America. Having a vast training facility is beneficial, but producing consistently safe and quality personnel is the Local's bread and butter, he added.

McGuckin also addressed the need for diversifying the Local's membership by reaching out to more women and people of color to join. He said the Union has had great success recruiting women and is actively working to increase the number of members who identify as a minority. He also noted that insulation work is a good profession for women because it requires less heavy lifting than other trades.

Registered Apprenticeships: One of the industry's best-kept secrets

McGuckin, a second-generation Insulator, touched on his background with the Insulators, which began with his apprenticeship in 1986. 

Prior to his apprenticeship, he attended Indiana University but quickly realized he needed another career option. Eventually, he was accepted as an apprentice into Local 17 and found it a good career choice. He spoke about how his time with the Insulators paved the way for a successful professional career 36 years later and counting.

McGuckin said the Insulators Union struggles to recruit apprentices because it is often looked over in favor of the larger building trades unions. Still, they are making strides by using different recruiting methods. 

Listen to the full interview here:

 

All data and information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability or validity of any information on this blog, any responses or comments posted on this blog or any information found on any link on this site. International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied workers will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers reserves the right, without notice, to edit, delete or refrain from posting any blog responses or comments or portions thereof that International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers deems to be offensive, derogatory, abusive or threatening in any way. This policy disclaimer is subject to change at any time.