Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust Executive Director Pete Ielmini recently spoke on America's Work Force Radio Podcast about apprenticeship and other topics.
The daily labor radio and podcast program is the only of its kind in the United States. Hosted by Ed “Flash” Ferenc, AWF brings guests from every corner of organized labor to discuss current issues and topics pertinent to their specific industry.
In contrast to his appearance on the program last month, Ielmini explained that although construction has been deemed essential, many Mechanical Insulators are out of work because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He then expressed optimism about a return to normalcy and all construction resuming. But welcomes the continuation of social distancing and other safety measures to protect the public from a second wave of coronavirus.
Ielmini then spoke about personal protective equipment and how the mechanical insulators who are still working have been equipped with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) so that they can work safely.
“In construction, specifically union construction, safety and health is paramount,” said Ielmini. “As Insulators, we are very aware of respirator protection.”
According to Ielmini, Insulator apprenticeship programs, much like colleges and universities, are carrying on in non-traditional ways. He explained how apprenticeship training works through on-the-job training and classroom instruction. He then encouraged listeners to apply for an apprenticeship with the Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers.
You can listen to the interview in its entirety here: