Training

The Heat and Frost Insulators and Asbestos Workers Union is committed to providing an adequate supply of trained insulation mechanics with the competitive skills necessary to meet industry needs now and in the future.

The goal of the apprentice program is to provide the highest level of training to apprentices, in order that they may assume positions as fully-qualified journeymen ready to meet the professional challenges of the insulation industry.

The program is structured for entry-level workers, as well as for insulation workers already employed within the industry who wish to upgrade their skills and to advance to journeyman status, at the same time benefiting from membership in the Heat and Frost Insulators and Asbestos Workers Union.

The apprenticeship program emphasizes on-the-job training and classroom instruction, as well as the use of textbooks and other course materials that give participants a thorough knowledge of the trade.  Safety plays a major role in the Apprenticeship program.  All apprentices must complete OSHA Safety Courses and receive the proper certifications before they may work on a job site in their first-year.

As an apprentice, you will be assigned to work for an insulation contractor. During your apprenticeship, you will work side by side with experienced journeymen who understand the practical application and theory.

As you progress through each year of the program, the tasks you are assigned will become more complicated and your work will require less supervision. Gradually, your sense of pride, independence and self-confidence will grow as you accomplish increasingly difficult tasks with less assistance and instruction.

In addition, your earnings will be adjusted upward each year to reflect your advancing skills and increasing knowledge of the trade. The average starting wage for 1st year apprentices is 45% of the mechanics wage rate plus fringe benefits. Unionized insulation mechanics in our local earn average wages of over $37 per hour plus health insurance and pension plans.  The exact figures depend upon the collective bargaining agreement negotiated with our signatory contractors.

When you are not at the jobsite, you will be attending classes taught by highly qualified instructors chosen for their extensive knowledge and expertise.

Upon completion of your apprenticeship, you will take an examination to demonstrate your mastery of the knowledge and skills you've been taught. Passage of this test is necessary to obtain journeyman status.

All journeymen regularly receive upgrade and refresher course certifications.  This includes everything from OSHA Safety to Fire Penetration Certifications and Asbestos Abatement Licensing.  Insulators and Asbestos Workers Local 89's Training Program is both state and federally certified.  Our school is also a New Jersey State registered Asbestos Abatement Training Agency.

This is the apprenticeship experience, "practical - hands on" learning, backed up by excellent classroom instruction and course materials. And you won't have to wait to complete your training to begin earning a living. You will earn while you learn, placing you on an immediate path toward economic security and stability.

Click Here to contact the Apprentice/Training Department.

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