Local 50 BM Dan Poteet explains the need for travelers on AWF Union Podcast

Local 50 Columbus/Dayton Business Manager Dan Poteet, a second-generation Mechanical Insulator, made his first appearance on the America’s Work Force Union Podcast (AWF), and discussed the growing need for manpower in his Local’s jurisdiction.

Poteet, who has served as Local 50 Business Manager since 2014, was recently elected President of the Central States Conference. He also serves as a Trustee for the Breath of Life Foundation, is Chair of the Local 50 apprenticeship program and sits on the Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council  Executive Board, where he represents the state’s Insulators.

On AWF, he spoke with host Ed “Flash” Ferenc about the current construction boom in Central Ohio, and how the Local has navigated through the initial manpower need. 

He called the Local 50 registered apprenticeship program the cornerstone of the Local’s success, as it trains the next generation of Central Ohio’s highly skilled Mechanical Insulators. 

Despite a larger class of apprentices, the construction boom has created a manpower shortage of experienced insulators. Poteet explained how Local 50 members are working on a diverse number of projects, from commercial and industrial insulation work to firestopping and maintenance. The positive work outlook signals steady employment for the foreseeable future, he said.

Currently, the Local is in need of travelers to work in the area. There are open calls and opportunities for HFIAW Brothers and Sisters to earn a good living in the region.

The website, insulators50.com, features a dedicated Travelers' tab with information about the open calls, including job opportunities, certifications required on each jobsite and incentives offered. As the construction boom in the Columbus area continues, the need for travelers will become more significant, he said. 

Besides trying to bring in travelers, members of the Local remain busy organizing non-union insulators and recruiting apprentices.

Experienced non-union insulators can benefit from competitive pay, excellent healthcare and a robust retirement plan paid to members by the Local’s signatory contractors. He noted that the union's registered apprenticeship program offers a pathway for those without prior experience to start a rewarding career in the mechanical insulation industry.

Listen to the full interview here.