Masonry Magazine July 1964 Page. 7
Meet The Need And Gain New Markets
During the later part of 1963 the officers of Local 56, Illinois, and the Mason Contractors Association of Du-Page County noted with concern the increasing number of projects in the area utilizing exterior pre-cast concrete panels. With this introduction new and varied methods of anchoring were being developed. The need for an intensive and thorough training program covering all phases of anchoring was seen and through the joint efforts of the Joint Apprenticeship Committee of the Union and the MCA; the Adult Education program of District No. 88; and the State of Illinois Apprentice Training Program, it was undertaken.
Through trial and error, and at considerable expense, a school was established with a qualified instructor recognized by the state program and the National Welding Bureau. Through the sustained efforts of the Committee and contributions from Contractors and the Local, the program drew immediate attention and more applicants for the course than could be handled.
It was determined that one instructor could only apply himself to a maximum of seven students per session. The average length of training per class was sixty to seventy hours. Of 22 journeymen who enrolled in 3 classes, it has resulted in the certification of 16. These men were issued certificates of their "break-down" tests. These tests required horizontal, vertical and overhead welding. The certificates issued by the United Certified Welding Bureau are recognized throughout the United States.
Neighboring locals have been notified of the availability of this pool of trained men who will be available for them upon request.
The school is also open for bricklayers of adjoining locals who have had training in welding and who wish to pass their tests for certification. The passing of this test has been simplified by making available this school for brush-up and practice prior to the test itself.
The course has proven itself successful beyond measure, not only in the interest aroused in the membership but in the jobs done by those members who have been certified. This ranges from small precast work on alterations to existing buildings to the large "high rises" and office buildings sprouting up from Chicago's lake front.
Taking their welding training are members of Local 56, Illinois. Standing left to right: President C. Louis Podesta, Secretary Don Clemens, Bus. Agent Trygve Espeland, John DeKeyrel, Jomes Ellsworth, John Younglove. Kneeling, left to right: Instructor John Ceszyk, Edward Klemm, John McPhail and Antoine Heningburg.