05/04/2026
This past Saturday was a great day in class. Our first-year apprentices got hands-on experience applying ASJ and FSK board, as well as Fyrewrap grease wrap. Each of these materials requires precise installation methods and proper technique to ensure a quality finished product.
Everyone did a strong job staying focused and putting in the effort to get it right. Keep up the good work!
05/01/2026
Today marked the final day of the Midwest Competition in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Local 34 apprentice Lauren Nelson did an outstanding job representing both our local and the apprenticeship program. It was truly an honor to work alongside her and share in this experience.
We are incredibly proud of everything she has accomplished. Competing at the Midwest level is a significant achievement in itself. While she may not have taken home the top spot, her effort, determination, and professionalism have left a lasting mark on her journey.
Lauren, you should be extremely proud of all that you’ve achieved. You set a powerful example for other apprentices to follow, and we hope you continue pushing yourself to be the very best in everything you do.
04/27/2026
Another great day in the books this past Saturday! Our apprentices had the opportunity to get hands-on experience with scissor lift operation and proper pin welder use, while continuing to build their skills working with duct wrap and duct board insulation. Great work everyone! keep it up!
04/19/2026
This past Saturday marked our second day of training for our new first-year apprentices. After completing our annual harassment training, we headed out into the shop where they got their first hands-on experience with our materials. For their first time learning how to work with and apply it, they all did a great job.
I’m very excited about the future of this group and look forward to working alongside them and helping guide them down the right path.
04/12/2026
Big day today getting to welcome our new first-year apprentices as they started their journey.
We went over bylaws, policies, and procedures, and I shared some real-world experiences to give them a better idea of what to expect out in the field.
This is just the beginning for them, and I’m looking forward to helping them get off to a strong start. This group has a lot of potential and represents the next generation coming up.
Welcome aboard everyone!
03/16/2026
This weekend, our two apprentices wrapped up the in-house competition to determine who will represent us at the Midwest States Competition!
Fourth-year apprentices Mitchell Stowe and Lauren Nelson both did a phenomenal job on their projects. They should be extremely proud of the work they completed and the accomplishments they’ve achieved. I’m incredibly proud of how far they’ve come and the leaders they’re becoming in our industry.
Congratulations to Lauren Nelson, who walked away with the win! Her skill, dedication, and work ethic will take her anywhere she wants to go in this trade. I have no doubt she will do a fantastic job at the Midwest Competition and represent Local 34 with class and craftsmanship.
I’m excited to see what she accomplishes next. Great job Lauren, we are proud of you!
03/13/2026
Had a great day at the Career Fair at Howard Lake Waverly-Winsted High School today, spreading the word about our apprenticeship program and what our trade has to offer. It’s always rewarding to share that an apprenticeship is a real option after high school. You can see the light bulbs go on when people learn about the craft of mechanical insulation and the opportunities it provides.
03/12/2026
Got to get out into the wild today and visit some of our apprentices! It’s always great seeing the hard work and dedication our members bring to the trade every day. Proud of the effort these apprentices are putting in and excited to see the next generation of skilled workers growing stronger!