Blog

For the second year in a row, Local 449 played host to the Pittsburgh National Refrigerant Training Summit. Co-hosted with the North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council, this is a three-day event packed with hands-on training, classroom lectures, and networking sessions. A who’s who of HVAC-R trainers, contractors, and industry leading manufacturers were in attendance throughout the expo. 

Technicians from around the region were able to learn about the latest technology in sustainable refrigeration. In addition to the three days of comprehensive training on the different systems, the event also served as an opportunity for these technicians to network with fellow industry professionals to advance their careers. In addition to this being a valuable resource for active technicians looking to enhance their knowledge of the trade, there was also an entire day dedicated to the future of the industry. 

Day 2 of the event featured the Cool Futures: Career Fair! HVAC-R students and faculty from around the region were invited to the Technology Center to learn about potential careers in the field. They had access to dozens of contractors and manufacturers. This career fair also included break-out training sessions where the students could learn a bit more about working with sustainable refrigerants. 

A job well done to all of those involved as PA’s trades continue to work towards a more sustainable tomorrow. 

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.