Uniting ARCCAW members across Alberta Winter 2014 Scaffolding apprentices lend a hand with renovations to Edmonton’s admin building On the Level ; ty pics as par s to m t is r Ch Wind Trade Designated ; s te s “ Succe ation” upda p u Occ Updates to the health and wellness plans Bigger and Better New improvements to the International Training Centre in Las Vegas PM#40063788 CORDLESS FRAMING NAILER XR® CORDLESS FRAMING NAILER. NO GAS CELLS, NO GAS CELL FUMES, JUST CORDLESS POWER. DEWALT’s 20V MAX* XR® LITHIUM ION Battery System combined with advanced Brushless Motor technology supply the power and extreme runtime professional users demand without the additional cost and annoying fumes of gas fuel cells. Mechanical rather than gas operation offers consistent performance at temperatures as low as -15°C and as high as 50°C with minimal cleaning/service requirements. Sequential operating mode allows for precision placement and the bump operating mode provides the user with production speed. Get off your Gas and Get DEWALT. Guaranteed Tough. DCN690M1 Copyright ©2013 D E WALT. The following are examples of trademarks for one or more D E WALT power tools and accessories: the yellow and black color scheme; the “D”-shaped air intake grill; the array of pyramids on the handgrip; the kit box configuration; and the array of lozenge-shaped humps on the surface of the tool. * With respect to 20V MAX*, maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18. † Based on results using the 20V MAX* Premium XR Lithium Ion 4.0 Ah high capacity battery pack (DCB204) HEATED WORK JACKETS 4 3 D EWALT HEATED WORK JACKETS. DESIGNED FOR CONSTANT WEAR The jackets, when used with a DEWALT 20V MAX* or 12V MAX* battery, are capable of providing hours of core body warmth and continuous heat†. Each jacket offers a water- and wind-resistant outer shell, an LED controller with 3 temperature settings plus pre-heat mode, and at least 3 core body heating zones. The heating power is transferred from the battery to the jacket by a USB power source that is also capable of charging up to 2 electronic devices that are USB-compatible. Tailored Tough to DEFROST any Worksite. HIGH MEDIUM LOW * With respect to 20V MAX*, maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18. *With respect to 12V MAX*, maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 12 volts. Nominal voltage is 10.8. † Actual run time varies depending on battery type and heat setting Copyright ©2013 D E WALT. The following are examples of trademarks for one or more D E WALT power tools and accessories: the yellow and black color scheme; the “D”-shaped air intake grill; the array of pyramids on the handgrip; the kit box configuration; and the array of lozenge-shaped humps on the surface of the tool. Executive Secretary Treasurer’s REPORT Little Things Make a Big Difference Martyn A. Piper A s we now enter a new year it would seem timely to refocus ourselves on the “Big Picture” mission and consider all the bite size pieces that fit together as ways to achieve the end goal of meeting our members’ needs and providing quality service to both our contractors and owners. Work is an overriding concern for most of our members. Consistent, reliable and stable work for fair compensation - reflecting a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work. Shifts and work schedules that benefit our members’ lifestyles, allowing for space away from the job to refresh and revitalize and spend time with family and friends. Travel provisions that eliminate and minimize the time spent driving, and commutes that are efficient, fast and safe. High performance from skilled tradespeople that convince and confirm for contractors and owners alike that employing our Union’s members is the best proposition when it comes to hiring labour. High skill levels which are the result of our Union’s world class training that guarantees efficiency and safety at our work sites. Eliminating drugs and alcohol from work sites and camps, thereby minimizing the confusion, tension, acrimony, time and noise about testing protocols, lifestyle, rehabilitation - and most importantly - ensuring a safe work site for all. We say we are our Brother’s keeper, then let’s live up to that by encouraging abstinence at work, directing members HARDHATWINTER2014 to the professional support systems available, and commit ourselves as Union members toward a fit, healthy, and happier life and workforce. Safety is everyone’s business. An injury to any one of our members is one injury too many. There are many ways we can improve on our track record. Getting to Zero is not just a company prerogative, it has to be ours as well. Every one of us can make a difference by wearing the proper PPE, performing hazard assessments, ensuring tools and equipment are in good working order, reporting unsafe acts, being the eyes and ears for both ourselves and others, not taking risks and being alert at all times, and just simply being in the moment at all times while working. Productivity and Timeliness – These are the geese that lay golden eggs! These are two of the main issues that often convince owners about which workforce to select. A minute here, a minute there - it all adds up. It’s true that sometimes work is not well planned or a job has to be done several times through no fault of our members. However, there are things we can control such as observing start and quit times, break times and producing at optimum levels. Just because another trade or group of workers conducts themselves differently is no reason to for us to emulate unproductive behavior. We win work by our performance. I talk to enough contractors and owners to know that performance and productivity are the keys through the door to more work for our members. Organizing, Recruitment and Market Share are three intertwined elements. We can never stop organizing non-union contractors and companies. Each and every member has an obligation to get permission to work non-union and assist in organizing non-union companies to increase our market share. Every member has an obligation to always be encouraging all carpenters, scaffolders, ISM/drywallers, millwrights and industrial workers to join our family of working men and women. We always have to be welcoming women, minorities, youth, aboriginals, and all workers, to join a Union such as ours. Increasing the unionization rate benefits you, benefits our members, benefits other workers, and benefits all workers in society. Getting involved politically is not a onetime activity as elections roll around. Political involvement must be ongoing. Join the political party of your choice. Get out and meet your aldermen, Councilors, MLA or MP. Work to understand the issues that affect you and your Union. Inevitably your actions will benefit to us all. Don’t be shy, pick up the phone, go visit, participate in social activities – just get involved. And so, these are a few nuggets to consider as 2014 gets underway. Good luck and good health to each of you and your families Contents Undeliverable mail should be directed to ARCCAW 200-15210 123 Ave Edmonton, AB T5V 0A3 Email: lhelmeczi@albertacarpenters.com Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement # 40063788 Published For: Alberta Regional Council of Carpenters & Allied Workers 15210 – 123 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T5V 0A3 Tel: (780) 474-8599 / Fax: (780) 474-8910 www.albertacarpenters.com FEATURES 11 First years lucky Winter 14 A scaffolding apprentice class comes through during repairs to the administrative building By David DiCenzo Published by: VenturePublishingInc. 10259–105Street Edmonton,AlbertaT5J1E3 Toll-free:1-866-227-4276 Phone:(780)990-0839 Fax:(780)425-4921 www.venturepublishing.ca 14 bigger and better The ITC in Las Vegas expands to offer more programs to more members By Tricia Radison 18 the show must go on Local 2103 members were among the many workers who made last summer’s Calgary Stampede possible. Publisher Ruth Kelly AssociAte Publisher Joyce Byrne 20 trade Winds to success ArccAW editor The most recent millwright group continues the program’s success By Cory Schachtel MartynA.Piper director oF custom content 20 MifiPurvis 22 fit@work editor JordanWilkins Stop overthinking your routine By Matt Smith Art director CharlesBurke AssociAte Art director DEPARTMENTS AssociAte Art director 4 note from the executive secretary treasurer AndreadeBoer ColinSpence Production coordinAtor By Martyn Piper BettyFeniakSmith Production techniciAns BrentFelzien,BrandonHoover contributing Writers David DiCenzo, Cory Haller, Tricia Radison, Cory Schachtel ,Matt Smith contributing PhotogrAPhers And illustrAtors BuffyGoodman,RyanGirard,JordanWilkins 6 site lines Skills Canada dates; Habitat for Humanity’s Union Built Home; Christmas Party photos 14 10 on the level By Robert Provencher Vice-President, sAles AnitaMcGillis AdVertising rePresentAtiVe KathyKelley 25 KidZone sAles AssistAnt JuliaEhli Contents©2014byARCCAWInc. Nopartofthispublicationshouldbereproduced withoutwrittenpermission. Important Phone Numbers Edmonton FortMcMurray Calgary CarpentersTrainingCentre CarpentersHealthandWelfare CarpentersPension IndustrialWorkers MillwrightLocal1460 LocalUnion1325and2103Dispatch 24 geared up 780-471-3200 780-743-1442 403-283-0747 780-455-6532 780-477-9131 780-477-9131 403-283-0747 780-430-1460 1-888-944-0818 26 meet the instructor 27 meet the Apprentice 28 training and Apprenticeship report By Len Bryden 29 local 1460 millwrights report By Bob Hugh 30 Parting shot 31 training & events; in memoriam on the coVer: Edmonton’s admin building needed improvements and a scaffolding apprentice class stepped up PHOTO: Ryan Girard hArdhAt WINTER 2014 Site Lines News in Brief A roundup of news and events from around the region Skills Set The Alberta Carpenters Training Centre (ACTC)will onceagainplayhosttotheEdmontonRegionalSkillsCanadaCompetition.OnApril12,highschoolsstudentsinterestedincarpentrywillget thechancetoshowtheirskillsandlearnfromsomeofthebestinstructorsinthebusinessattheACTC.Thosesuccessfulintheregional competitionwillmoveontotheProvincialSkillsCanadaCompetition attheEdmontonExpoCentreonMay14and15tocompeteagainst selectedpost-secondarystudentsinthetrade.And,asalways,the ACTCwillhaveitsTry-a-TradeboothsetupattheExpoCentretogive curiousstudentstheopportunitytoattemptbasiccarpentryunder thesupervisionofaninstructor. A Special Visit Calgary’s mayor, Naheed Nenshi, stopped by the Calgary AirportprojectlastyearandthankedalltheBrothersandSistersfrom EllisDonfortheirworkontheproject.Thenewairportisscheduledto openOctober2015withmanpowerpeakingat175Unioncarpentersand 50Unionscaffoldersoverthecourseoftheproject. Shelter From the Rain Union members are always quick to lend a hand to fellow workers,evenforthoseindifferentindustries.Thiswasapparentwhen retiredBrotherRonGouthrovisitedUnitedFoodandCommercialWorkers(UFCW)onthepicketlineinFortMcMurray,offeringhisRVasaccommodationforthosebravingtheelements.TheAlbertaRegionalCouncil ofCarpentersandAlliedWorkers(ARCCAW)alsodonatedcoffeeand suppliedover200piecesofchickenforthepicketers.TheUFCWwas thankfulfortheARCCAW’ssupportandrelayedamessagefromthefront lines:“Thankyousomuchforthesupportandthechicken.” HARDHATWINTER2014 Christmas Celebrations Local 1325 Local 2103 Local 1460 HARDHAT WINTER 2014 Site Lines News in Brief On the Home Stretch Construction is almost complete on HabitatforHumanity’s(HFH)second UnionBuiltHome,butthereisstilltimeto comeoutandlendahand.HFHEdmonton’spresidentandCEO,AlfredNikolai, saysbuildingtradesmembersfromacross theprovincehaveenjoyedworkingonthe project,havingheardoverwhelminglypositivefeedback.“Everyshiftmakesadifferenceandit’sareallyrewardingexperience,” saysNikolai.“I’veheardmanysaythatthisis thebestthingthey’veeverdone.” Thehouseiscurrentlyatthedrywall stage,sincethisisanon-jurisdictional build,membersareinvitedtovolunteer throughouttheentireprocessregardlessofthestageofthebuildandtheir particulartrade.Sofartherehasbeen236 eight-hourvolunteershiftsonthehouse, withmostofthemcomingfromunion members,Nikolaisays.Inaddition,many unionmembershavedonatedmaterials andmoneytoHFH. Theexpectedcompletiondateforthe 999-5%*)6;'% home,whichislocatedinsouthEdmonton,is latespring;perfecttimingfortheyoungfamilyto movein.TheUnionBuiltHomeisa1,500square foot,threebedroomhousewithafinishedbasement.Formoreinformation,ortovolunteerfor theUnionBuiltHome,visit hfh.org/volunteer/ unionbuilthome. < !4%-1-1+ <2157/6-1+ < 1 -6)!4%-1-1+ <7(-6-1+ < 1 -6) %*)6; )48-')5 < %/)5%1()16%/5 < 6%1(%4(-456-( <23))5'7)-+,1+/) <1/-1)2745)5 < $220&22024./-*6 -5'271662%//"1-21)0&)45 0%-/ !2//4)) **-') %: ((4)55 HARDHATWINTER2014 -1*2-5%*)6;'% %56/)(29152%( (021621!# A roundup of news and events from around the region Ahead of the Pack Local 1325 members and Aluma Systems administration teamed to create an award-winning float in Fort McMurray’s Christmas Parade. The team crafted a reindeer made entirely out of scaffolding. “We started from the legs and worked our way up,” recalls Mike Mayuk, a project manager with Aluma Systems. “We let our imaginations go and I think it worked out well.” Their effort earned them first place in the parade and a cash prize of $500 that the team donated to the Kids Forever Foundation. Mayuk says it took around eight hours to complete, but it was well worth it when he saw the reaction of the children watching the parade. “I was actually driving the truck that was pulling the reindeer so it was really great to see the kids’ faces. I think they really enjoyed it.” The float was special for the team at Aluma, too, as they dedicated it to the memory of Ian Jessome, an Alumna employee who died recently battling cancer. When it comes to the health of your employees… it’s important to have a plan. Alberta Blue Cross delivers the group benefits that employees prefer, and the value your business needs. Oppose Designation Results from last November’s EAE Scaffolding Industry Consultation 2013 Employee Survey are now with the Government of Alberta. Thank you to the members who participated in the survey and voiced their opinion against labeling scaffolding as a “Designated Occupation.” This group of non-union scaffold employers looks to completely undercut the value and standards that the Alberta Regional Council of Carpenters and Allied Workers and our industry partners have long fought for. Their attempt to deregulate the scaffold industry will do nothing more than enshrine their ability to train to a lower level, employ people whose skills are far below our members’ skills and, ultimately, reduce their own costs. As a Union, we need to stand together to oppose this “Designated Occupation” in the scaffolding industry. The results from the survey are currently with the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board and are expected to be published this spring. For more information visit albertacarpenters.com. Call us today for a confidential, no-obligation quote or talk to your plan advisor. Edmonton 780-498-8500 Calgary 403-294-4004 Lethbridge 403-328-6081 Medicine Hat 403-529-5550 Grande Prairie 780-532-3507 Red Deer 403-347-7999 Toll free 1-866-513-2555 www.ab.bluecross.ca/group 1SFTDSJQUJPO%SVHTt%FOUBMt-JGFBOE%JTBCJMJUZ 7JTJPOt5SBWFM$PWFSBHFt$SJUJDBM*MMOFTT 4QFOEJOH"DDPVOUTt&YUFOEFE)FBMUI &NQMPZFFBOE'BNJMZ"TTJTUBODF1SPHSBN ABC 83188 2014/01 HARDHAT WINTER 2014 on the level Healthand WellnessPlan SeveralchangeseffectiveJanuary1,2014 ByRobeRT PRoVenCHeR o n beHAlf of THe boARD of TRusTees I Am pleased to announce the following changes to the Alberta Carpenters and Allied Workers Health and Wellness Plan, effective January 1, 2014. suPPlemenTAl HeAlTH CARe PResCRIPTIon DRugs • Feminine contraceptives with the written prescription of a physician subject to a maximum of $360 per family (Member and Dependent in total). • The Plan will cover the cost of an Epipen (an auto-injection device used to treat anaphylactic shock by persons with severe allergies) with a limit of two per eligible person every 12 months to a maximum of four per family (Member and Dependent in total) per year. suPPlemenTARY meDICAl benefITs • Effective January 1, 2014 the Plan will cover the cost of a blood pressure monitor to a maximum of $100 every two years. 10 • An eligible child must be at least age six and up to and including age 17 at the time the treatment commences. • The maximum dental fees covered by the Plan as described in the ACAW Dental Fee Guide have been increased by 10 per cent. • Actual fees charged by dentists can vary. Costs covered for Frequently Used Dental Procedure Codes from the ACAW Dental Fee Guide are listed on www.acawtrustfunds.ca for the most common procedures. Your dentist can use this list to determine the portion of your dental costs that will be covered by thePlan. VIsIon • Eye exams for members and dependents between ages 18 and 64 has increased from $75 to $95 once every 24 months, including contact lens exam (In Alberta, eye exams for residents under age 19 and over age of 65 are covered by provincial health care). membeR lIfe InsuRAnCe • A Member who is eligible for benefits is provided with life insurance protection under the Group Life Policy. This coverage has been increased from $100,000 to $150,000. • A Spouse of a member who is eligible for benefits is provided with life insurance protection under the Group Life Policy. This coverage has been increased from $20,000 to $30,000. DenTAl PAYmenT of ClAIms • Basic/Major combined maximum increased from $2,750 to $3,000 per person per calendar year. • Basic treatments include examinations, cleaning, extractions, fillings, etc. • Major treatments include crowns, periodontal scaling (up to 16 units per year), root canals, etc. • Orthodontic Lifetime Maximum Amount increased from $3,000 to $3,500 per eligible child A comprehensive review of direct billing by service providers is currently being undertaken. Until such time as this review is completed, direct billing by service providers has been limited to dental, drugs, ambulance and hospital room charges. All other direct billing by service providers has been put on hold until further notice. Members will be required to make payment to the service provider and then submit their claims to the ACAW Trust Funds office. There will be no exceptions to this notice. Thank you for your patience in this matter. HARDHATWINTER2014 PHOTOS: RYAN GIRARD on ToP oF iT ALL: Thank you Randy Dwernychuck, Darrell McGillis, Brenton Vanderleek, Rogelio Lang Ramirez, Ryan Loe, Lyle Kormos, Marvin Eskew, Tracen Ronnie, Gavin Mullen, Carlos Restrepo, Solomon Gebreselassie, Stephan Stecher, Dennis Westergaard, Saleban Mohamed, Khadar Abdi and Hunter Shaw for your help with facility repairs. The class transported hundreds of scaffolding pieces into the building and assembled them in the meeting hall so the contractors could replace the drywall. First Years LUCKY When the ARCCAW administration building in Edmonton needed repairs, a group of first year scaffolder apprentices stepped up By DAviD DiCenzo T he administration building of the Alberta Regional Council of Carpenters and Allied Workers (ARCCAW) in northeast Edmonton sits atop an area of unstable clay. This expandable clay takes a toll on the facility, particularly the south side of the structure, causing the on-grade slab to heave and deflect. The deflection has caused interior walls to crush within the building, and, because of the facility’s high walls, repairs can be costly, disruptive and difficult. Fortunately, with the Alberta Carpenters Training Centre (ACTC) also located at the facility and the Union’s sturdy relationships with industry partners, many of these challenges were alleviated during the repair. HARDHAT WINTER 2014 11 TIES THAT BIND: PERIFormworkSystemsgenerouslyprovideditsPERIUP scaffoldingsystemtotheAlbertaRegionalCouncilofCarpentersandAllied Workers.Thesystemwasperfectforthisproject.ThankyouPERI. Bob Provencher, project manager for the ARCCAW, needed a scafThe apprentices were tasked with transporting hundreds of scaffold system and a crew to take down and erect a 40-foot wall in the folding pieces into the building and assembling them in the meetfacility’s meeting hall. No easy feat especially when the facility needed ing hall, a feat that took two days. After the contractors replaced the to remain operation for the duration of the repair. Always resourceful, drywall in the room over the course of three weeks, the apprentices Provencher approached Len Bryden, the director of training and appren- then took the scaffolding apart and hauled it out again, piece by piece. ticeship at the ACTC, to see if anyone at the training centre could lend “This project was extremely challenging because it needed to be done a hand. Bryden spoke to several scaffold in a working building,” says Provencher. instructors, who then came through and For some of the first years, it was “The scaffolding system had to be moved recruited 24 first year apprentices for the through the building, avoiding fixtures, one of the first times they had month-long repair project last October. furniture and staff, while causing as little worked on a real project. The apprentices were enthusiastic disruption as possible to daily business. It about helping out, Provencher recalls, but took a lot of cooperation and commitment, then came the task of acquiring the proper equipment for the job. Once not only with the apprentices but the entire staff in the building.” again, the Union’s strong connection with industry leaders proved to The project went through seamlessly and everyone at the facilbe valuable. PERI Formwork Systems Inc., a well-respected equipment ity, particularly Provencher, was grateful for PERI’s generosity and supplier in the industry, stepped up and offered to supply all the scafthe scaffolding apprentices’ hard work. “My reputation is that I folding system required. “The PERI system was as good as I’ve ever seen don’t often compliment people,” Provencher adds. “But this group and proved perfectly suited for this project,” says Provencher, who notes of apprentices handled the project with aplomb. They worked well the job was a challenge, even for the skilled workers. “The tradespeople together and went about it with smiles on their faces. They enjoyed it rebuilding the wall system were able to perform their job with comfort and it showed. We were very happy to have this group involved with and ease due to the quality of the scaffold system.” the project.” 12 HARDHATWINTER2014 For first year apprentice Darrell McGillis, being part of the scaffold-building team was not only a great learning experience, but was also affirmation that he had made the right choice to go back to school. The 45-year-old from Carvel owned his own stucco business for 12 years before making a return to the classroom. Jumping into a new career proved intimidating for McGillis, but the instruction, opportunity and camaraderie, particularly during this repair project, has energized him. “When we were told that we were going to build scaffolding in the hall, I could see the excitement level rise as everyone wanted to show off their newly acquired skills,” recalls McGillis. “It was good to see all of the guys get into the job and get the project done.” Ryan Loe, a 33-year-old apprentice from St. Paul, already had some experience using the PERI system so he was assigned as one of the primary builders for the job. He, too, was excited to apply the knowledge he acquired in the classroom to an actual project. “Two skills that our training stressed was reading drawings and material estimation,” explains Loe. “We had to modify the original design to make it work in the space, but having the drawings to start from really helped. And, having an accurate material list meant that we were able to do the job much more easily.” Loe says he and his fellow apprentices had a great time getting to work on a real-world project, because as great as classroom instruction is, there really is no substitute for hands-on training. “Everyone naturally slipped into roles that played to their strengths, just like on a real jobsite,” he adds. “For some guys, it was one of the first times they were on a real project so it gave everyone a real sense of accomplishment. I don’t think the other classes could have done it any faster so it was pretty impressive for a group of first-years.” The apprentices came in ready to work. But the presence of Jake Waldner, Provencher’s 70 -year-old site carpenter, provided additional inspiration. “Jake is a gruff old guy but he’s a good man – and no one is keeping up with him,” says Provencher. “When these young folks see a man 70 years of age willing to work hard, it inspires them to do the same.” Provencher knew the project would provide a challenge for the apprentices, but he also knew that because of the training they receive at the ACTC, they would be capable. So the end result, which he says saved a great deal of time and money, didn’t come as much of a surprise. “They made the workday shorter because they attacked it with humour and commitment,” Provencher says. “On behalf of the organization, I want to say thanks to everyone who contributed to this project.” HARDHAT WINTER 2014 13 Bigger and Better ByTRiCiA RADison The International Training Center in Las Vegas expands to offer more programs to more members T he United Brotherhood of Carpenters’ (UBC) International Training Center (ITC) in Las Vegas is now bigger and better than ever. An expansion that wrapped up in September gives the ITC nearly one million square feet of space on 17 acres to offer Union members across North America the highest quality training as well as new programs to meet evolving needs. “It allows us to expand all of our training programs for members and to put on more than 100 different train-the-trainer classes for instructors throughout North America, including Alberta. Trainers then go back to their local areas and train members,” says William Irwin, executive director, Carpenters International Training Fund. The expansion includes a new shop that is almost 100,000 square 14 HARDHATWINTER2014 feet, increasing the total number of shops at the ITC to three. Called the south shop, it is equipped to teach new training programs in underwater welding and pile driving and has allowed the ITC to expand its megatronics training by increasing the number of robots from one to 10. The new south shop also frees up space in the north shop so the ITC can expand training in areas such as interior systems, heavy and light gauge steel, storefronts, doors, hardware and flooring. An exciting new feature is the retractable roof on the south shop. It creates a 32-by-64-foot opening to allow scaffold training to go much higher than ever before in a controlled setting. Alberta instructors helped develop the curriculum that ITC will teach in the full-time scaffold training area. “With the oilsands, we have an incredibly large market for scaffolding in Alberta. As a result, we’ve developed a very professional training program and the ITC recognizes that we are leaders in the trade,” says Len Bryden, director of Training and Apprenticeship, Alberta Carpenters Training Centre. “The opportunity to contribute to the curriculum allows us to share our knowledge with the rest of North America.” Bryden visited the ITC in November for the first-ever conference for training directors and coordinators and, besides the informative sessions, he was also very impressed with the facility’s recent changes. “It’s wonderful,” he says. “The huge shops combined with their hightech classrooms and conference rooms will allow for more trainers to get trained in best practices so we can bring it home to our members.” Union members from Alberta also have an opportunity to visit the centre, which has its own 300-room hotel and a cafeteria, through the ITC’s third-year apprenticeship and journeyman programs. Bryden explains that such visits are an opportunity to learn more about the UBC and the training centre, see what’s going on outside of Alberta, and network with Brothers and Sisters from other districts. Built in 2001, the ITC was founded in an effort to standardize training so that Union members are all taught the same way. “Before we opened the centre, the International Training Fund would go into an area once a year, and the regional training centre would host the train-the-trainer sessions for two to four weeks,” recalls Irwin. “But everyone did construction and training differently.” Standardizing curricula ensures that members are able to work in other regions when contractors get out-of-area projects and allows them to relocate without having to get new training credentials. The ITC also updates the curricula annually so that members are always receiving the most up-to-date information. Currently, the centre publishes more than 600 technical training materials for the almost 250 training centres, like the Alberta Carpenters Training Centre, across North America. This expansion is the fourth since the ITC opened its doors and it is now triple the size of the original facility. The UBC invested about $44 million in the latest addition with the International Training Fund also investing in the equipment needed for training. HARDHAT WINTER 2014 15 18 HARDHATWINTER2014 PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF CALGARY The Show Must Go On By MARTIn DOveR Local 2103 members were among the many workers who made last summer’s Calgary Stampede possible I n June of 2013, a combination of environmental factors led to the worst flooding in Alberta in over 100 years – and a challenge that the Calgary Stampede would not soon forget. On the morning of June 20, just a week before the scheduled start of the 101st Calgary Stampede, the organization was bracing for disaster. After the City of Calgary had declared a state of emergency around 10 a.m., the Stampede activated its own Emergency Command Centre. But when the water arrived, no one could have been prepared for the sight. By the early morning hours of June 21, eight inches of water covered Stampede Trail. The Scotiabank Saddledome was filled up to row 10, the historic ‘Blue Bridge’ had been washed away, and the fate of Stampede 101 appeared to be in jeopardy. But that’s when workers came to the rescue, including many Brothers and Sisters from Local 2103. In fact, if it hadn’t been for a courageous team who stayed through the night to push water away from the electrical substation, the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth may indeed have been in trouble. The magnitude of the damage was overwhelming, but thanks to pre-planning and quick-thinking, cleanup had already begun. On June 24, contractors from all over North America arrived to help. Tandem trailers, dump trucks and other heavy-machinery labored in constant, 12-hour shifts. And while the furious cleanup effort raged behind the scenes, a press conference announced that Stampede 101 would proceed. One of the most daunting recovery tasks involved dirt from the infield and track. It all had to be removed - then rebuilt with more than 25,000 cubic meters of clay, sand and gravel. In addition, every building had to be power washed, sanitized and inspected. Thanks to the tremendous effort and support of volunteers, employees and the community, Stampede 101 went ahead with almost no visible signs of the disaster that occurred just days beforehand. It was proof that we are greatest together and a testament to the strength of the community that came together in the face of tragedy. HARDHAT WINTER 2014 19 PHOTOS: JORDAN WILKINS Trade Winds to SUCCESS ByCoRy SCHACHTel Program provides students with training today, security for tomorrow T rade Winds to Success really is a life-changing program. “If it wasn’t for Trade Winds to Success, I’d probably still be looking for a job,” Nick Zetterberg says. Zetterberg moved to Alberta from Vancouver Island in 2011. At first he bounced around the province looking for work, like many who have made the move, but found only dead ends. “There’s tons of work out here, but getting a job in the trades without experience, especially something like being a millwright, is tough,” Zetterberg says. “They’ll hire you as a labourer, give you the three-month probation period, and then think about offering you an apprenticeship, but it could be years before it happens. I was working at a sawmill, and if I hadn’t found Trade Winds, I’d still be there doing the same thing every day for the next 30 years. Trade Winds took me out of that.” 20 HARDHATWINTER2014 Zetterberg began the classroom portion of the Trade Winds to Success program, where students upgrade their education in order to pass the pre-apprenticeship exam, in April 2013. Two months later he started the eight-week hands-on portion, gaining real-world millwright experience. He graduated August 16; his first day on the job was August 25. “Other places offer pre-apprenticeship programs, but to come out of the program as a union member, and get a job straight away, I haven’t heard of that anywhere else – and I looked,” he says. Martyn Piper, president of the Trade Winds program’s board of directors, says finding avenues for Métis and Aboriginal people to become union trade members was at the core of the program’s inception. “We saw a potential connection with the federal government wherein there was a mandate to encourage and find an opportunity for Aboriginal and First Nations people to enter the trades,” he says. “But they needed specific entry points.” Enter the local trade unions, each of which contracts out their training centre to Trade Winds to provide the facility and shop training. Initially backstopped by both the provincial and federal government, the program now receives further funding from oil companies, who are keenly aware of the trade industry’s coming turnover, and eager to find well-trained replacements. “In the next two or three years, the industry will be faced with losing about 23 per cent of the workforce to retirement, and that includes me,” says millwright instructor Dave Knight, who took in the first class of Trade Winds students five years ago and says the program’s reputation is already well established. “All the unions recognize what’s coming, and they’re bringing in new apprentices, just like we are, to fill the void when people start punching out. And all the contractors have completely bought in to the Trade Winds program, too. The students we send from Trade Winds have preference over a first year apprentice walking in off the street because they know our students have the training and safety qualifications.” Knight says that over the program’s first five years, students have a more than 75-per-cent success rate in finding and maintaining meaningful work. And it’s that meaningful work, not just a paycheque, that current students like Ed Dunning find so rewarding. The 30-year-old spent 16 years as a labourer, digging ditches, washing bays, chipping ice, until he heard about the program from a friend who had completed it and now is a journeyman. “I was absolutely the beauty of stability, and knows first hand how at home from the start. “Ever since I got into nervous when I started Trade Winds, considTrade Winds can help achieve it. “I had been out the program I have seen more women getting ering I hadn’t had any proper schooling since I of work for a year when I moved to Edmonton was 16,” Dunning says. “But since I started, I’ve into the trades, which is awesome, but being from Fort Mac. I came here with just my two had the best help. The instructors are great, but the only girl in class doesn’t even cross my you don’t always ask them for help, mind,” she says. “I love working in because they get the students work“I’m going to be an awesome millwright,” the shop, I love our instructors. I’m ing together. So you work with your just so in love with this trade, and says Janelle Richards. “This program classmates, even on the educational eager to learn. I know I’m going has given me my independence.” portion, just like you will with cowto be an awesome millwright; orkers when you get a job.” this program has given me my kids and it was scary,” she recalls. “But the first Set to graduate in January, Trade Winds independence back.” thing they said when I got here was that they has both stimulated and put Dunning’s mind Word is spreading among the Aboriginal are here to help us pass this course and get a job, community about Trade Winds, which began at ease, providing him a future he may otherhowever they can. Even then I didn’t realize wise not have had. “The program offered me running two sessions in 2012 and has had stuhow helpful they’d be – they also found me a two dents come from the Northwest Territories. the chance to stop breaking my back and learn bedroom apartment and got me bus tickets.” something new every day. I’m actually able to “I was out with a friend from class and had Trade Winds has always focused on finding use my brain again,” he says. “It means so much another buddy saying he wants to be like us, to me, so much to my fiancée, our daughter, and females within the Aboriginal community to that he wants to be an electrician, not just do enrol – a trend that’s growing across the entire my parents. Stability is a beautiful thing.” drywall his whole life,” Richards says. “I just trades industry – and even though she’s the only said he already knows how to do it: just call Dunning’s classmate and friend Jennelle Richards agrees. As a single mom, she’s aware of one in this particular class, Richards felt right Trade Winds right now.” HARDHAT WINTER 2014 21 fit @ work STop overTHInkIng Successful exercise isn’t complicated, but it does take effort and incremental steps By MATT SMITH W hat cardio should I do? What exercises build strength? How many days a week should I go to the gym? How much weight should I use? How many rest days do I need? Which program is best for me? How do I know it’s even working? Like anything in life, when you start something new you’re going to have questions. That’s OK, but be careful not to overwhelm yourself. I’ll explain some basic guidelines to incorporate into your current program or what to consider when starting out from scratch, but the most important thing I can tell you is to focus on actually training; don’t worry about 22 HArDHAT WINTER 2014 the minor details. If you’re new to regular exercise, following some simple guidelines will help you realize just how attainable your goals really are. First, the keys to a successful workout routine: Do no harm, keep it simple, start light, progress slowly and, finally, do no harm. The first (and last) might seem obvious, especially when moving weighted objects, but never underestimate your ego. When lifting weights in front of friends, the opposite sex, or even that strange guy lurking in the corner of the gym, we tend to push ourselves harder than we should. But, how can you progress if you’re injured? How will hurting yourself affect your overall attitude toward working out? Remember; injury is the result you least want to achieve when exercising. As often as “keep it simple” is hammered into someone’s mind, it can be challenging to resist all the sexy, new exercises and programs spouting to be the best. Always remember that training is simple; pick a few basic compound movements, warm-up and then move. Afterward go for a brisk 30-minute walk or do some sprints and call it a day. Don’t overthink it. The truth is, too many people try to major in the minors, which is usually all that these trendy programs offer. Instead, focus on the important key factors and everything else will fall into place. Most big-time fitness trainers and com- FoundationS’ EdgE Start light and progressively increase weight or reps with each workout. I know that probably sounds way too simple, but it will work. Here’s how it hits the foundational points to building a successful routine: A) You’ll continually hit personal records (increased motivation) B) Your tendons and ligaments will adapt to a new workload (injury prevention) C) You’ll perfect your form with each repetition (long-term progress) D) You’ll be clear on what you need to do each session (focus) Matt Smith, CSEP-CPT, NASM-CES SoME Kind oF training PrograM panies won’t ever tell you this, but it’s very simple to get strong, lean and conditioned. Just consistently lift weights, eat properly and get enough sleep. Do this for six months and you’ll be shocked. This is the only guaranteed way to trim fat, put on muscle or become as strong as an ox. Unfortunately, words like “consistency” and “long-term” don’t sound nearly as appealing as what these get-fit-quick programs claim to offer. Instead, start at a weight you can easily handle and add a little each session. This technique will build all the important foundations required for an effective routine: increased motivation, injury prevention, long-term progress, and focus. Starting light and building steadily without changing anything else in your life and you will still see desired results. If you follow a program long enough, you will eventually reach maximum weight and intensity. This goes for any type of cardio and conditioning, too. But, it’s important to keep that ego in check and avoid injury by only taking on what you can handle. Always strive to stay injury free. Here is an effective, straightforward approach to training: Exercise three times a week, alternate between workout A and B, and take one rest day between workouts. Follow up each session with two miles of brisk walking or a few sprint periods. Like all exercises, consider your doctor’s approval before starting any serious training program. This is just a basic template, but let’s call it the “Some Kind Of Training Program.” The first number indicates the number of sets recommended while the second indicates how many repetitions in each set. For example: 5x5 = five sets of five reps where 3x10 = three sets of 10 reps. WORKOUT A** Some kind of SQUAT 5x5 Some kind of HORIZONTAL PRESS 5x5 Some kind of PULL/ROWING 5x5 Some kind of ABDOMINALS 3x10* *optional WORKOUT B** Some kind of SQUAT 5x5 Some kind of VERTICAL PRESS 5x5 Some kind of DEADLIFT 1x5 Some kind of ABDOMINALS 3x10* **Take two minutes rest between all sets As a general guideline, progressively add five pounds to upper body movements and 10 pounds for lower body movements every session. You’ll eventually hit a point where you cannot complete all five sets of five reps and instead your workout will look something like this: 5x5x4x3x2. That’s OK; just continue at that weight until successfully completing five sets of five reps. Barbell exercises are ideal, but any type will work if you follow this guideline. I hope this demonstrates how simple an effective workout program can be. But please understand that simple does not mean easy. Continual education and consistency are overriding factors to any program and in the end success is always up to the individual. Will you be successful in 2014? If you have any questions about this program, or adjusting your own, don’t hesitate to shoot me an email at matt@smithtrained.com. HardHat WINTER 2014 23 Geared Up Tools to help you work faster and smarter UnplUGGeD It’s 2014; have you gone cordless? Cordless tools aren’t new, but users have always encountered challenges with batterypowered tools in cold temperatures, especially here in Alberta. But, Dewalt’s latest gas-free cordless framing nailer is up to the task. The new XR Lithium Ion Brushless Framing Nailer has the power to drive a 90 mm ring shank nail flush in even the coldest temperatures, making it ideal for heavy duty woodworking professionals. The Dewalt XR Framing Nailer doesn’t rely on combustible fuels to drive a nail and as a result, the nailer maintains consistent performance throughout its entire lifespan. Users save money because there is no need for costly gas canisters and they are not tied to any one nail brand. A combination of the Dewalt 20V MAX 4.0AH li-ion battery pack, along with the efficient transfer of energy from the motor allows the Dewalt XR Framing Nailer to drive a large quantity of nails per charge – meaning that even heavy users should only have to recharge their battery once to complete a full day’s work. The Dewalt XR Framing Nailer is available at home centres, mass retailers, and hardware stores for a retail price of $549 for the DCN690M1 and $429 for the DCN690B bare tool. For more information visit dewalt.com. BUilT foR ComfoRT Bostitch’s new low profile paper tape framing nailer might be one of the most comfortable on the market. Its over-molded grip and new features, such as a selectable trigger, and an adjustable rafter hook, make it perfect for just about any job. The framer weighs just over seven pounds but delivers 840 inch-pounds of impact energy. Other performance features include a tool-free selectable trigger that easily allows users to choose the firing mode that best suits each job – single-drive or multi-drive – with just the flip of a switch. The framer’s short profile and slim body allows it to adapt between rafters and small spaces. An adjustable rafter hook gives users a free hand when needed plus, with a magazine capacity of 92 nails and last nail retention magnet to prevent the last nail from dropping out of the nose of the tool, work always goes smoothly. 24 HARDHAT WINTER2014 The Bostitch LPF33PT Low Profile Paper Tape Framer is available at home improvement and independent dealer stores across Canada at a retail price of $299.99. For more information visit bostitch.com. fiGHT THe ColD Here in Alberta, there is no getting away from cold weather. But, Dewalt’s new line of heated jackets can help make freezing temperatures more barable through the work day. Powered by Dewalt 20V Max or 12V Max lithium ion batteries, the jackets are capable of providing hours of core body warmth and continuous heat. The new line includes three different styles: a soft shell work jacket, a hooded work jacket, and a True Timber camouflage jacket. Each offers a water- and wind-resistant outer shell, an LED controller with three temperature settings plus pre-heat mode, and three core body heating zones: left and right chest, and back. The soft shell work jacket and camouflage jackets offer a fourth heating zone in the collar. The heating power is transferred from the batteries to the jacket by a USB power source that is also capable of charging up to two USB-compatible electronic devices. The kitted jackets retail between $199 and $249. For more information visit dewalt.com. KidZone Hammer Time You’ve probably seen a hammer before, but did you know there are actually many different types of hammers? Each style has a different use. The most popular is the claw hammer, named after the curved part of the tool that can remove nails. This is the type of hammer that most people have at home, but professional carpenters use many different styles when they are working. sledge hammers are used for heavier jobs like breaking up rock and stone, but there are also pin hammers that are much smaller and used for cabinet work. There are even power hammers (but most people call them “nailers”) that use electricity instead of muscle. Hammers can be dangerous if they aren’t used properly, so make sure there is an adult around if you ever want to use one. Q: Why did the man hit his hand with a hammer? (Answer below) Matching Game Word Search Kinds of Hammers Can you guess which hammer is which? Match each hammer photo to its name. sledge Hammer Power Hammer (nailer) 1 2 Pin Hammer 3 Claw Hammer 4 Mallet 5 Hidden in this puzzle are the names of some of the hammers that carpenters use. Can you find them all? Claw MallET Ball PEin sofT Cross PowEr CluB Pin slEdgE Q K M d M V C s J P H o M V H w Q C a Q s f B P P f f Y r H i f P r C r o s s Q K K Q C H C s f r n T l d l g J C a i s l Y B n i r T E E K T s s K P T u u E P f M J d i r s o n P B Q f K o n w C g C C K K o J T g V s n i E P E u Q B w r Y n Y J J K T K f Q X u E a g a M o r B g f a f M l r w l l C n J Z Q C Y X a C H s P C i f u H a f a V l E T n l o w w J n Z r C Z l l o f M f K f Q s Z l B l wQ o T E o l P a B Q u C d Y r E M C w M l d X u u HARDHAT WINTER 2014 25 answers: Joke - He wanted to see something swell.; Matching game - 2, 1, 5, 3, 4 Meet the Instructor Open Doors W hen Neal Hugh graduated high school in 1996, many of his classmates didn’t know what they wanted to do with their lives. But for Hugh that period of directionless panic was short lived. His father gave him a piece of advice that Hugh should have seen coming: “Get into a trade.” After all, his father and grandfather were both members of the Local 1460, and, for Hugh, a millwright’s work is in his blood. He applied to the Union that summer and, before he knew it, was on the out-of-work list, ready to be sent into the field. “My father told me ‘I opened the door for you, but it’s up to you to keep the door open.’ ” recalls Hugh. His first four-week call was in Wabamun and he hasn’t looked back. Now a third-generation millwright of Local 1460, a 17-year veteran of the trade and current vice-president of the local’s executive committee, Hugh has forged his own path in the industry. Helping the president of the executive committee, Dave Knight, with new member orientations, Hugh is often the first face apprentices see. And, as an instructor for the Alberta Millwright’s Training Centre, he has found his way of opening the doors for his future Brothers and Sisters. By COry Haller Hugh says the most rewarding part of his role as an instructor is witnessing students’ passion for learning the trade. Back in 1996, he was one of 12 millwright apprentices at his local. Today more than 400 apprentices are involved with Local 1460. It’s a door that Hugh proudly opens but, of course, it’s up to the apprentices to keep their doors open, with Hugh guiding them along the way. As an instructor for the millwright apprenticeship program, Hugh opens doors for his future Brothers and Sisters. PHOTO: JOrdan Wilkins For Hugh, the key is to impart the skills and knowledge an apprentice needs to his students without beating it in to them. It’s a technique he learned on the job. “I have a lot of supervisory background where I’ve been a foreman or a general foreman.” says Hugh. “With that comes mentoring. I don’t treat them like I am the boss and they’re my employees.” Instead, he treats them like colleagues. “I’m working with them, and we want the job done right.” Hugh hopes that his students feel empowered and, more importantly, will want to continue to learn – something he says is most important in the diverse world of millwrighting. “I always tell my students if you have the opportunity to get on different jobs, do it. Expose yourself to the different opportunities that are out there,” he says. “Don’t just do it for the money. Do it because you want to see what it’s all about.” Neal HugH 26 HarDHaTWINTER2014 By Cory HAller PHOTO: JOrdan Wilkins Meet the Apprentice etHAn rAbby Active learner V ariety is the spice of life – and no one knows this better than Ethan Rabby. His interests revolve around physical activity, whether it’s going to the gym, playing hockey or cross-country skiing, but he feels it’s just as important to exercise the mind. This is something he does each day during his studies in NAIT’s Millwright Apprenticeship Program, and he’s excited to have found a career he believes stimulates his mind as much as his body. This is part of the reason why the fourth year millwright apprentice left his previous studies as a personal trainer and switched to the trade. Though he loves physical fitness, making it a career quickly leached the passion for the gym out of his life. “It took something I enjoyed and turned it into a job. At that point, I didn’t want to work out on my own time.” Rabby spent a short period bouncing around the construction industry, but nothing snagged his interest. It wasn’t until a friend’s father toured Rabby through Local 1460 that he found a clear direction. “He showed me around and showed me the variety of stuff you get to work on at any given time,” says Rabby. “You might be working a month or two at a time on different kinds of jobs. I decided to go to school for it and give it my best shot. And I love it.” Rabby takes his newfound work seriously, transferring the discipline he learned at the gym and applying it to his studies. “I look at it the same way; as long as you are doing your best – and giving it your all – you’re going to find success.” Now in his fourth year in the apprenticeship program, Rabby’s hunger for variety in his work is showing no signs of abating. He has set goals for years – decades, even – down the road. “I’m always looking to expand my knowledge,” Rabby says. “I’m working toward getting my Red Seal ticket and then my Blue.” “I’m always looking to expand my knowledge,” Rabby says. “I’m working toward getting my Red Seal ticket and then my Blue.” He adds that another possibility for his future would be to take advantage of NAIT’s business degree program, which he will have two-years credit for once he earns his Red Seal ticket. It’s his way of always being prepared for the next step, which might include a move to the planning sector or supervisory role later in his career. “I would say a lesson I have learned is not to get to comfortable.” Rabby says. “I’m constantly looking at different ways to do things and learning about my trade, because I know that in the next 20 or 30 years, I still won’t know everything.” HArDHAt WINTER 2014 27 REPORT Training and Apprenticeship Continue To Learn D iversity. As a member of the Alberta Regional Council of Carpenters and Allied Workers (ARCCAW), you’re already familiar with this term. We see it every day in all the different jobs we do and we live it in our personal lives as well. Our type of work involves people of all races, genders, ages and languages and I believe that is one of our greatest strengths. We become stronger as we learn to overcome some challenges that diversity may bring, whether it’s through training apprentices or jobsite performance. We are always adapting to overcome any challenges we face as workers in a highly competitive and sometimes dangerous workplace. This brings me to diversity in regards to your training and your goals as a member of the ARCCAW. Whether you are a journeyperson carpenter or scaffolder, millwright, drywall/ISM lather, industrial shop worker, roofer, or any other trade we represent internationally, keeping your abilities current and having a diverse skillset is guaranteed to keep you more employable. Be sure our dispatch department has your current email address so you receive notices we send regarding openings in classes, and any other important updates as they happen. Call your local hall to pass on your information to our provincial dispatch department. Visit abcarptc.ab.ca for a listing of scheduled courses at the Alberta Carpenters Training Centres (ACTC), because we have a lot to offer. For example, did you know we ran four five-day UBC Commercial Door Hardware training classes in 2013, in both Calgary and Edmonton? We also ran Period 1 and Period We adapt to overcome challenges 2 Carpenter eight-week we face as workers in a highly programs for carpentry over a dozen competitive and sometimes apprentices, Forklift/Telescoping dangerous workplace. Rough Terrain (PITO) two-day classes, two-day Aerial Work Platform (AWP) classes, five-day UBC International Rigging Certification classes, as well as five-day Print Reading classes. We also held five-day Level and Transit Training classes, in addition to 14-day Industrial Technical Training classes, eight-week pre-employment Trade Winds to Success classes in Edmonton and Calgary, and 42 separate scaffold classes (three-, four- and five-week programs) between April 2013 and December 2013. It was a busy nine-month period, but that list doesn’t even include the hundreds of members here for in-house safety training courses. I want to congratulate the students and apprentices who kept all ACTC locations buzzing for the past nine months. Thanks, also, to our excellent ACTC staff members, because without them, none of this would be possible. Take a look at all of these courses and ask yourself what diversifying your personal training portfolio could mean to you. There are so many opportunities that exist right now for our members who are willing to go the extra mile and upgrade their skills. And, the Alberta Carpenters Training Trust Fund covers more than I have even listed here. When I talk about diversity, I mean it. Consider courses like the Better SuperVision program for future management positions. The trust fund reimburses $1,000 to members once 28 HARDHATWINTER2014 Len J. Bryden, Director of Training and Apprenticeship Alberta Carpenters Training Centre the course is completed. How about taking the Industrial Construction Crew Supervisor (ICCS) certificate from the Alberta Government after that? Again, the trust fund reimburses here, too. How about a basic welding program to help get a carpenter job where some welding is required? The trust fund will cover these types of skills training and many more options, just be sure to get prior approval from our office first. More diversity in skills and abilities will undoubtedly lead to more opportunities for employment. Please consider what I am saying. Don’t settle for just one type of training or skill when more opportunities are available to you, whether it’s through the new Federal Apprenticeship Grant Fund or the Alberta Carpenters Training Trust Fund as an ARCCAW member. The future looks bright in our industry, and if we all stay together, train together and diversify our skills, we will be hard to beat. REPORT Local 1460 Millwrights Health and Wellness Improvements O ur benefit funds remain key components in recruiting and sustaining millwright members and their families. The millwrights’ pension fund provides post-retirement income security to millwrights and their spouses. Many newly-recruited members express relief in the knowledge that while they labour, they and their spouses are accumulating a hassle-free retirement nest-egg. I’m thankful to prior business representatives who had the foresight to arrange for a retirement plan on our behalf, even when we, then, didn’t understand its importance. The millwrights’ health and welfare fund attends to our more immediate needs: prescription drugs to keep us healthy, dental care to repair our teeth and maintain our children’s smiles, and many other benefits designed to assist in troubled times. Those benefits are attractive to potential recruits, and sustain and provide comfort to working and retired millwrights and their families. The millwrights’ training fund plays a critical role in broadening our capacity for workplace excellence. The training centre provides hands-on training to new recruits and seasoned veterans alike, and highly-skilled members make it easier for the union to capture more market share, thus protecting wages and benefits for all. All three funds are overseen by a board of trustees, whose responsibility it is to utilize the available assets to deliver the best possible services. When prudent to do so, based on the available assets, the trustees improve the design and delivery of those services. Some recent health plan improvements include: Bob Hugh, Senior Business Representative Local 1460 Millwrights • I ntroducingadrugcardtomakethepurchaseof prescriptiondrugseasier; • Hiringanewinsurancecompanytopaylong-term disabilityandotherbenefits; • Addingalocalserviceofficetoexpeditehandling ofcomplexbenefitclaims; • Extendingdentalcoveragetoretiredmembers, effectiveJanuary1,2014. Our benefit funds, and the above improvements, would not exist without the commitment of prior millwright members and leaders, who agreed to collectively sustain and support each other through the introduction of group benefit, training and pension funds. While acknowledging our past history, the design and delivery of the services will not remain static. Both design and delivery must evolve to satisfy the changing needs of our membership. Your positive and active participation in that process is invaluable. We will continue to listen closely to your feedback, and adjust the services to ensure your health, training and retirement needs. We will continue to ensure that the recruitment requirements of the funds are properly addressed, now and into the future. HARDHAT WINTER 2014 29 Parting Shot At the Sawmill Work for millwrights at sawmill operations in the mid-20th century wasn’t very different than it is today. The majority of sawmills in Canada were still located in British Columbia, processing logs into lumber. The biggest difference in today’s sawmills is the emphasis on worker safety and waste minimization. Today, sawdust and other mill waste is processed into particleboard and related products, or used to heat wood-drying kilns. 30 HARDHATWINTER2014 UPCOMING Training + Events Meetings First Wednesday of each month: Local 1325 meeting Third Thursday of each month: Local 2103 meeting Fourth Tuesday of each month: Local 1460 meeting training alberta Carpenters training Centre The following is a sample of training courses that are open for registration at the time of publication of this edition of Hard Hat. For full listing or more information on training courses, visit abcarptc.ab.ca or phone the Edmonton office at 780-455-6532 or toll-free at 1-877-455-6532. All courses are at the Edmonton location unless otherwise indicated. Commercial Door Hardware Installation Course: March 10 to March 14, 2014 (Calgary) April 7 to April 11, 2014 May 26 to May 30, 2014 (Calgary) Scaffolding Journeyman Upgrade: February 3 to March 7, 2014 April 14 to May 16, 2014 (Calgary) Scaffolding Level One: February 10 to February 28, 2014 February 18 to March 7, 2014 (Ft. McMurray) March 3 to March 21, 2014 March 17 to April 4, 2014 (Calgary) April 7 to April 25, 2014 (Ft. McMurray) April 14 to May 2, 2014 April 28 to May 16, 2014 May 26 to June 13, 2014 May 26 to June 13, 2014 (Ft. McMurray) Scaffolding Level Two: January 27 to February 14, 2014 (Ft. McMurray) February 10 to February 28, 2014 March 10 to March 28, 2014 March 17 to April 4, 2014 (Ft. McMurray) April 7 to April 25, 2014 April 28 to May 16, 2014 April 28 to May 16, 2014 (Ft. McMurray) May 20 to June 6, 2014 June 16 to July 4, 2014 June 16 to July 4, 2014 (Ft. McMurray) Industrial Technical Training: January 27 to February 9, 2014 March 24 to April 6, 2014 May 5 to May 18, 2014 May 12 to May 25, 2014 June 23 to July 6, 2014 Period 1 Carpentry: May 20 to July 11, 2014 Scaffolding Level Three: March 3 to March 28, 2014 March 31 to April 25, 2014 May 20 to June 13, 2014 June 2 to June 27, 2014 (Calgary) June 9 to July 4, 2014 Pre- Employment Carpentry Program: March 10 to May 2, 2014 Visit www.albertamillwrights.com for a current listing of training courses available. MiLLwrights training Centre In Memoriam ARCCAW notes with sorrow the passing of the following members. LOCaL 1325 Said Ali November 2013, Age 56 Patrick Doyle October 2013, Age 70 Helmut Eggert October 2013, Age 83 Ruslan Korolew October 2013, Age 51 Line Savoie October 2013, Age 51 Adrien Thebeau October 2013, Age 64 LOCaL 1460 Mato (Matt) Bozic October, 2013 Age 64 LOCaL 2103 Dale Boyce December, 2013 Age 53 Hubert Kleine October, 2013 Age 87 HARDHAT WINTER 2014 31