486 Apprentices -Maryland & Delaware

05/06/2026

Being a union apprentice welder has been a big step in my life and career.”
Anthony Smith shares how hands-on experience and mentorship shaped his journey—learning not just the technical side of welding, but the pride that comes with doing quality work.
“Every day on the job pushed me to improve—whether it was welding, reading blueprints, or understanding how everything fits together in the field.”
Through challenges and long days, Anthony continued to build his skills and confidence, growing into the kind of tradesperson the industry depends on.
“Being part of the union showed me the importance of teamwork, respect, and pride in the work we do every day.”
Every step forward is earned—and every lesson builds toward the next level. ⚒️

05/04/2026

May at UA Local 486:
Union meeting + apprenticeship graduation.
Show up. Support the next generation.

05/02/2026

Graduation is almost here! We are so excited for the future's of our 5th years and cannot wait to celebrate them at the end of the month!

That's it. This month is all about them.

05/01/2026

05/01/2026

Apprentices put in the work all year…
this week we fire up the grill 🔥

Nothing better than a cookout at the training school celebrating our students.

Huge thank you to our retirees for showing up and helping out. You're always there for our apprentices and we couldn’t do what we do without you. Plumbers and Steamfitter Local Union 486

Another big thanks to the Office of the Apprenticeship for stopping by and always supporting us! Maryland Department of Labor

Happy National Apprenticeship Week from the Local 486!

04/28/2026

This is why apprentices matter ⚒️🔥
From the people who teach, work alongside, and support them every day—apprentices are the future of UA Local 486 and the trades as a whole.

04/26/2026

Passing the phone.. more like chucking it at each other 🙃

Its all love though

04/23/2026

486 does the dew... can't you tell? Mountain Dew

04/22/2026

If you have ever called, emailed, or stopped into 486-
If you ever came to an open house, golf tournament, or applied to be an apprentice-
you have Dawn, Sandy, and Mandy to thank.

To the ladies who keep us organized, on track, and moving every day—thank you. We couldn’t do it without you.

Happy Administrative Professionals Day 💙

04/17/2026

Chris Spurley's Journey to Journeyman ⚒️
“The 486 Apprenticeship has been one of the best rollercoaster rides I could have asked for.”

Chris Spurley reflects on a journey that didn’t always go as planned—but shaped him in ways he wouldn’t change. Working across multiple companies, building connections, and learning from different journeypersons gave him a wide range of experience and a strong network within the local.

“This program returns to you whatever you put into it.”

Through every challenge, Chris stayed focused—gaining skills, building relationships, and making the most of every opportunity along the way.
“I’m going to miss seeing my brothers in my graduating class every week. It’s a bond I won’t ever be able to replicate.”

Every journey is different, but the impact lasts long after the program ends.

04/15/2026

Classically trained… just a different kind of instrument ⚒️
Built through hands-on training, in the shop and on the job.