Starting a new career can be thrilling, challenging, and can often create a feeling of uncertainty not knowing what to expect. For Eric Strafalace, it was a mix of everything. We sat down with Eric of the Pennsylvania Laborers' District Council to talk about his transition from restaurant work into the trades. Learn why making the switch was the right decision for him!
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A successful weekend of Build On is in the books! Thousands visited over the two-day event to see first-hand what a career in the trades can offer. So many young people are looking for an alternative to the rising cost of college and The Builders Guild of Western PA is proud to offer many promising options.
We'd like to thank all of the building trades members for their on-site contribution.
The event was presented in cooperation with The CNX Foundation and Partner4Work.
Becoming a union member has multiple benefits, but deciding which trade is most suitable for individual needs is no easy feat. Some members begin their trade journey out of high school, others decide on a career change, and some start with one trade and move to another.
Coming from a family of trade people, Willie Rennebeck of Ross Township was no stranger to its benefits. He reflects on the process that is similar in all trades. The first step is applying for your apprenticeship. Rennebeck took his apprenticeship with the Insulators, Local 2, after twelve years in the Laborers 1058 union, ready to make a change. “I learned a lot because it was so organized, the classroom was efficient, and I learned a lot from the instructors as I transitioned to become a journeyman.”
For Local 2, it is a four-year apprenticeship that consists of both field work and regular training center hours with instructors to learn the more intricate training. “I enjoy the ability of getting creative and showing the skill and craftsmanship of our trade,” said Rennebeck. He added that the best part of any job in the trades is “seeing a bridge or a building and knowing I helped build that.”
Now that Rennebeck has been a part of the Insulators Union for seven years, he appreciates the benefits that come with being with Local 2. “If you’re weighing union work against non-union, it’s the total package that includes pension, annuity plan, and healthcare. I also know that I have union representation to protect my rights as a worker”.
Beyond the benefits to your career, he also mentioned the community that being a member can add to the job. “The insulators are a very small, tight-knit group with only around 500 members, but we have well-attended monthly meetings and a much-awaited union Christmas party. I might be the only one on a job sight but the little things the union puts on are fun to connect with other insulators.”
Local 2 is always looking forward to the next generation of tradesmen and building the core brother and sisterhood. Rennebeck has his own advice.
“When you’re new and learning the trade, you need to ask questions. There are so many journeymen that are willing to give advice. Some people might have a different technique but learning them and finding what works best for you is important.”
Willie Rennebeck is proud to be with Local #2 and the family of skilled tradesmen that call it home.
The Builder's Guild would like to thank all of the apprentices who participated in the 2023 District 2 Apprentice Competition. You made your individual trades proud and continue to show why trade work is crucial and effective. We'd also like to thank Plumbers Local 27, Steamfitters 449, and Sprinkler Fitters Local 542 for being such gracious hosts. Congratulations to our hometown winners! We hope you enjoy this quick video recapping a great day!
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