At a recent safety training session, we caught up with two incoming Steamfitter apprentices, Jake Pail and Bucky Wright. We asked them some questions about their experience with Local 449 to share with other aspiring Steamfitters.
Question: What made you choose to join Local 449?
Pail: I chose Local 449 because my dad is a 499 guy, and he always said great things about it and how rewarding the career can be if you work hard.
Wright: I chose Local 449 because I fell in love with welding when I went to Lincoln Electric Welding School, and I figured this was the place for me to be to learn something hard and something that’s gonna give me a good life and career.
Question: What are the benefits of hands-on training?
Pail: Hands-on learning is key for me. I like learning with my hands. I do better when instructors show me physically, in person, how to do things, and it’s the best way for me to learn.
Wright: I just work better when I can see something happening. I really like that I can see what’s going on and learn more, you know, doing everything hands-on.
Question: What is your favorite thing about the union?
Pail: The best part about being a Steamfitter is coming here to this facility every day. It’s a world-class place, and I truly believe it’s the best place to be in the country.
Wright: Honestly, the brotherhood. I met a lot of guys when I started here that I never knew, and they are like brothers to me now. I love them.
Question: Would you recommend Local 449?
Pail: I would recommend this career path to any motivated individual, especially an athlete in high school. If they like to stay active, this is a great career.
Wright: I’d recommend this to others because you can make a great living doing it for yourself and your family.
The Steamfitters Apprenticeship Program application period closed on Saturday. Our leadership team is currently in their selection process and will notify applicants soon.