JOB DESCRIPTION
The work of the insulator journeyman today covers industrial, commercial and cryogenics. Industrial applies to all types of industries, such as chemical process, petro-chemical, metal and other process industries, liquid organic heating systems, steam condensing cycles, high temperature hot water systems, nuclear energy, fossil fuel steam electric systems, co-generation plants, cement production plants, as well as light industrial production facilities. The Commercial field includes public buildings such as office buildings, hospitals, schools, building services, and refrigerated spaces. Cryogenic is the field of low temperature service, such as required by the liquefied gases, generally below –150 degrees Fahrenheit.

As an insulator apprentice, you will be certified for an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Abatement program. In addition to the EPA certification, you will receive Fire Stop Certification, OSHA-10 Safety Training, CPR, and Basic 1st Aid Training.

Insulators work with a wide variety of materials, such as fiberglass, cork, calcium silicate, foamglass, expanded silicate, Styrofoam, extruded foam plastics and spray insulations. The various types of insulation come pre-formed, rolled or flat stock. In addition to the various forms of insulation, the insulator will work with protective jacketing consisting of PVC, fiberglass cloth, canvas, aluminum and rubber water proofing membranes. As an apprentice insulator you will be trained in the application of these materials to hot and cold piping, refrigerant lines, duct work, boilers, tanks, large power plants, brine lines and cooler rooms. It is common practice for the insulator journeyman to work from a set of blue prints and specs.

WORKING CONDITIONS
It is construction work and the work is outside as well as inside, and weather can be a factor. The work at times may be performed at various heights, off ladders, scaffolds, stages, mechanical reaches and suspended heights in excess of 200 feet.

RECOMMENDED HIGH SCHOOL COURSES
Algebra, geometry, mechanical drawing, vocational technical schooling are all beneficial but are not required.

TERMS OF APPRENTICESHIP
  · 5 years
  · 12 classes per year in addition to OSHA Safety Training, CPR, Fire Stop, Asbestos Abatement and COMET training (organizing)
  · Indentured to the joint Apprenticeship committee
  · On the Job Training

ADMISSION REQUIREMENT OF THE JOINT APPRENTICESHIP COMMITTEE
  · Qualify on aptitude testing administered by the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee Local #23
  · Personal interview
  · Doctor's examination required including a chest x-ray (only if accepted into the program)
  · Copy of Birth Certificate

CONTINUED EDUCATION
A unique new program has been developed involving the National Labor College of the George Meany Center for Labor Studies. The program allows individuals to pursue a Bachelors Degree while continuing their trade work. A total of 48 credits will be credited toward a Bachelors Degree with an additional 12 credits for Safety and Health courses conducted by the Apprenticeship Program. The remaining 60 credits will be completed through the National Labor College at the student's leisure.

REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTINUED EDUCATION
High school diploma/GED and grades transcripts.