On Tuesday January 14th, the Steamfitters Technology Center played host to the annual Skills USA District 10 Competition. High School Students from more than 10 different schools in the area tested their skills in both individual welding and fab team competitions.
“They’re athletes in their trade and this (competition) gives them an amazing opportunity to put the skills they’ve learned in their vocational classes to the test” says Three Man Fab Team Chairman, Travis Crate.
In addition to showcasing their skills, participants also worked alongside current Local 449 apprentices. They received assistance and evaluation from instructors at the technology center.
“Students get an up-close look at what it’s like to work in the industry at the elite level. They’re standing right there working side-by-side with real apprentices that work in the field” says Welding Chairman, Ted Zablocki.
The students competing are the potential future of the building trade industry, which is why Local 449 has championed this specific event for many years. It is the first real introduction to a building trade organization, so, the instructors take pride in providing these young men and women this hands-on interactive experience.
We want to congratulate all this year’s participants! The first-place winners of last week’s event will advance to the state competition this spring in Williamsport.
If you’re interested in taking the next time in your building trades journey, visit our website here.
Pittsburgh building trades showed up in style at this year’s Build On ‘24. The two-day event hosted by the Builders Guild of Western Pennsylvania showcased the state’s construction trade unions and what a career with them looks like. 
The Pittsburgh International Airport is completely transforming its entire facility, and it is considered one of the most ambitious construction projects to hit the region. The goal of their Terminal Modernization Program is to deliver a more efficient passenger experience and enrich travel for all visitors, and you can bet that Pennsylvania’s building trades are represented.
Local 37 was established in 1919 when the American Federation of Labor merged the Tile Roofers Union and the International Brotherhood of Composition Roofers, Damp and Waterproof Workers. The union doubled their size in the 1950’s, and by 1978 they had officially adopted the name that we all know today, as well as the 28,000 union members it had. Their emphasis on training, safety, and diligence in their work, which is still paramount today. The union’s history also shows commitment to the apprentices through constant improvement of their working conditions and ensuring fair wages.