From Training to Employment: Heat & Frost Insulators Union Local 131

During this half, the Learning Exchange established a training-to-employment partnership with the Heat & Frost Insulators Union Local 131.  

The Insulators Union has had trouble recruiting enough new apprentices in the past few years, and have expectations of increasing demand for their members in the near term. The  Learning Exchange offered to put together a cohort of our learners who had expressed an interest in  trades work, as well as cover the cost of the training and provide significant wraparound supports to  help these learners overcome any barriers to their success.  

The Learning Exchange vetted over 50 of our current learners based on their interest, availability, and  capacity to complete the training, resulting in a cohort of 13 who were selected and enrolled in the  training. Beginning July 7th, these learners started a 12-week ‘Pre-Block 1’ apprenticeship training  program at the Insulators’ Training Centre in the McAllister Industrial Park. 

This course provided a range of skills needed to work as a first-year apprentice through both classroom  instruction and hands-on shop work. Topics covered include workplace safety, insulation principles,  materials and practices, math, asbestos removal, pipe and piping systems, etc. Participants obtained  all relevant safety certifications (First Aid & CPR, WHMIS, Confined Spaces, Fall Arrest, Aerial Lifts,  Asbestos Abatement, and Fire Stopping (STI / Hilti / 3M). They were also provided with financial advice  specific to the trade and compensation package, as well as workshops on mentorship roles &  responsibilities.  

The Learning Exchange’s contract with Local 131 covered all instruction and certification costs, a full  toolkit, work boots, as well as all fees (including indenturing fee with province once they become  apprentices and union initiation fees). We also provided direct supports to the participants including,  but not limited to, a bi-weekly stipend to help cover living costs, food security (snacks furnished daily  and full lunch provided twice per week), as well as the arrangement and cost of transportation to and  from the training.  

All 13 of the participants completed their training on September 13th, and all are anticipated to be  working by October 6th. Their starting wage is approximately $32 / hour when the full compensation  package is considered, with potential to increase through to the journeyman rate of > $65 / hour in as  little as a 4-year period. 

To learn more about the Heat & Frost Insulators Union Local 131, visit https://www.insulators131.com/en.