As the nation grapples with the reality of climate change, energy efficiency will be at the forefront of many infrastructure endeavors.
Mechanical insulation will play a critical component in the fight against climate change, as the need to insulate America’s mechanical systems will create unprecedented demand in the Mechanical Insulation industry and spur the growth of apprenticeships to create the necessary workforce.
Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust (LMCT) Executive Director Pete Ielmini appeared on the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the growing need for Mechanical Insulator apprentices.
According to a national study, all buildings in the U.S. are missing 10 to 30 percent of the mechanical insulation needed to be energy efficient. Mechanical Insulation will be a critical component of the infrastructure bill recently signed into law by President Biden, Ielmini said.
Registered apprentices are the best way to meet increased job demand
Registered apprenticeships are the best way to meet the growing demand for Mechanical Insulators, Ielmini said. The programs include both classroom instruction and hands-on training, which can be critical to learning a physical craft.
Those who enter Mechanical Insulator apprenticeship programs are rewarded with quality benefits and good pay, as well as valuable retirement packages, Ielmini said.
Ielmini also talked about registered apprenticeships as a viable alternative to traditional college as they provide the valuable means for a career without the expensive burden of student debt. Many apprenticeship programs also offer college credit.
The biggest challenge facing the Mechanical Insulation industry is getting people to realize the importance of insulation and its energy saving benefits, Ielmini said. Many easily understand the value of wind and solar, but too often overlook the value of proper insulation. However, as fuel costs increase, insulation becomes not only a viable way of substantially lowering a building’s carbon footprint, but also a valuable way to save money.
You can listen to the entire podcast: