Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust, recently appeared on America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss pivotal topics impacting the industry.
Ielmini started by explaining the bipartisan effort to reintroduce the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act, a legislative initiative aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in federal buildings.
With over 300,000 federal facilities consuming significant energy, this act proposes mechanical insulation audits for the buildings as a cost-effective solution to reduce energy usage and save taxpayer money.
“Installing mechanical insulation is going to save money, it’s going to save energy, it’s going to save money for the taxpayers and there really is no pushback from either party on it,” Ielmini said.
Firestop Market Recovery Program
Ielmini shifted gears and talked about the LMCT’s Firestop Market Recovery Program with AWF Host Ed “Flash” Ferenc.
The program has achieved remarkable success, particularly in HFIAW Local 38, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
Ielmini shared how the program unites contractors and Local Union leaders to strategize on increasing market share and work opportunities.
This collaboration led to a significant victory, with 20 percent of Local 38’s membership now engaged in firestopping projects, demonstrating the program’s potential for job creation and industry growth.
“They hit a grand slam for their contractors and for their members,” Ielmini said. “20 percent of their membership right now is working on firestopping, which includes a tremendous amount of overtime.”
Ielmini explained that firestopping systems are essential for maintaining the integrity of fire-rated walls and preventing the spread of fire and smoke.
By focusing on these specialized skills, unions not only create more work opportunities but also contribute to safer buildings.
“Good luck happens when preparation meets opportunity,” Ielmini said. “Because they were prepared for it, they are receiving the fruits of their labor.”
Listen to the full episode to explore how mechanical insulation is transforming energy efficiency and job creation in the construction industry.