New York, NY – Local 94 of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) represents over 5,000 men and women responsible for the operation, maintenance, renovation and repair of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning and all other mechanical systems in public, private, residential and commercial buildings throughout New York City.
This year, 2023, Angelo Manniello was chosen as Outstanding Apprentice of the Year by the Local, and will be honored on June 13th, at a LaborPress event dedicated to those apprentices of similar quality. In advance of his official recognition, LaborPress was able to interview Maniello to find out what makes him stand out. It was obvious right away that he has a deep knowledge of and interest in his chosen industry.
LP: How old are you and where did you grow up?
AM: I’m 37 years old and I grew up in Queens, NY
LP: What sparked your interest in the trade – do you come from a union family?
AM: My father was a Local 94 operating Engineer for over 30 years. I’ve always been interested in problem solving and I find that this industry provides the challenge of solving problems using both physical and mathematical practices.
LP: What is interesting to you about the maintenance of heating and air conditioning systems in the NY metropolitan area?
AM: What I find most interesting about HVAC in NYC is how buildings new and old will adapt to and become more sustainable and what new challenges will come with doing so.
LP: Have you worked in both schools and office buildings? What has been your experience as far as the nitty gritty of the work?
AM: I started my career as a Local 94 Operating Engineer in a residential building, finding the balance of asset protection along with resident relations, using both mechanical and social skills.
LP: What job are you currently working on and what are your specific tasks?
AM: I’m currently the Chief Engineer of a residential building for The Durst Organization. I lead a successful team of 4 engineers with the responsibility of operating and maintaining all building mechanical systems, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
LP: What are your thoughts about the apprentice program: did it challenge you, and did it prepare you well for your on-the-job duties?
AM: I found that the Local 94 Training Program created a solid foundation of knowledge of what to expect in actual on-the-job situations. I found myself using the class criteria along with past experiences shared by many of the instructors to find solutions to problems I was dealing with when at work.
LP: What did you like most about the apprentice program?
AM: What I liked most about the Local 94 Training Program was learning from instructors who truly care about sharing the very valuable information they possess. It’s an excellent way to gain an advantage in the HVAC industry.
LP: How do you feel about receiving the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year Award?
AM: I’m honored to accept the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year Award. It’s been quite a journey since my first day at training and I give many thanks and praises to all my instructors and co-workers that have helped me along the way.
LP: What are your hopes and dreams for the future?
AM: I look forward to advancing in my career as a Local 94 Engineer and use my knowledge of the past to guide me into the innovations of the future of HVAC technology and sustainability.
