New York, NY – IUOE Local 30’s Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee is recruiting some 25 Stationary Engineer apprentices from January 24 through February 4. LaborPress recently sat down with Director of Apprenticeship & Training Patrick Lynn to learn more about the program, what new apprentices should expect and much more.
LP: What percentage of those who obtain applications can expect to be received into the program?
PL: As one of the only accredited apprentice training programs we typically distribute around 1,000 applications during each application period. Traditionally, there will be 25 apprentice positions available per application period. Due to the growth of our local through organizing efforts, we have continually exceeded the 25 positions and expect to continue to grow.
LP: What can those chosen expect as they train?
PL: Graduates of the IUOE Local 30 Apprenticeship and Training Program can expect to have knowledge and experience with heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration, as well as hands on training with corresponding machinery. Each apprentice will also have an opportunity to interview as an apprentice at the over 300 Local 30 job sites as positions become available. Local 30 Apprentices will also earn the time required to take the NYC Refrigeration Operators Licensing exam as well as earning the EPA 608 Certification.
LP: What are some highlights of the program?
PL: Highlights of the IUOE Local 30 Apprenticeship and Training Program include the accessibility of our highly trained instructors who are available to assist any student who may need extra help. Apprentices also have unlimited access to the International Training Center in Crosby, Texas.
LP: What is the level of diversity in the program and has it improved over the years?
LP: IUOE Local 30 prides itself on inclusivity and our program reflects our diverse membership. Over the years, as our program has grown, so has the diversity, with many more females applying to the program and excelling in the field.
LP: What kind of salary can those in the program expect to receive during training and after graduation?
PL: Apprentices enter the workforce in entry-level positions, but as students move through the program there are many opportunities to advance in the field. Entry-level positions at IUOE Local 30 job sites are historically above minimum wage and the goal, as apprentices gain more knowledge and experience, [is] they will also see the monetary benefits as is detailed in the contracts at their job sites. Upon graduation, and completion of the program including licensing, apprentices will be qualified for Licensed Engineer positions at any of the many job sites in Local 30’s jurisdiction where they can reasonably expect wages and benefits that will support a middle-class lifestyle as well as a respectful retirement.
LP: What got you interested in the field, and what was your career trajectory?
PL: I first joined IUOE Local 30 in 1991 and was interested in the mechanical engineering field. I worked at several job sites and went on to earn my refrigeration license, working my way up the ladder becoming an Assistant Chief Engineer and then Chief Engineer. IUOE Local 30 afforded me the opportunity to work at multiple locations learning many different skill sets specific to the machinery at each site. I began working as an instructor with the Apprenticeship and Training Program in 2006. During my tenure as an instructor, I taught a variety of classes, and in 2016, upon the retirement of the previous director, I accepted the position of director of Apprenticeship and Training.
Applications can be obtained during the recruitment period at IUOE Local 30, located at 16-16 Whitestone Expressway, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays.
