FTI NEW ENGLAND – 2025 UPDATE

Progress at Our New Training Center Exciting developments continue at our new training facility in Lowell, MA. Over the past several months, we’ve completed painting and successfully relocated our main training offices to the new location. With the move complete, the real work begins. Our Glazier program is the first to transition, and their training mockups and classrooms are nearly fully operational in Lowell. While some activities will still require trips to New Hampshire, the Glaziers are settling into their new home. Other trades will follow once their mockups are built. We are currently meeting weekly with architects during the design phase to ensure the best use of space for all programs. Each trade has unique requirements, making this process both challenging and exciting.

• Industrial Painting will be located at the back of the building to minimize noise impact.
• Glaziers will have access to the highest bay area for work at height.
• Drywall will be positioned under the mezzanine to contain dust and provide direct access to loading docks for easy teardown and disposal.
• Commercial Paint will have access to a dedicated spray booth with enough space to flex their muscles.
• Wallcovering now has a clean, undisturbed area on the mezzanine.

Health and safety remain a top priority. Plans include a 125-seat auditorium and a 60-person classroom, ensuring we can meet training needs for years to come. Additionally, the high bay area will allow us to conduct advanced classes such as scaffolding and swing staging. We anticipate completing demolition and construction over the winter, with all trades relocated by 2026. The City of Lowell has been incredibly welcoming, ensuring a smooth and successful transition.

STAR Program Success The STAR Program event in October at Franklin Park Zoo was a tremendous success. It was inspiring to see so many members, families, and friends come together to celebrate. From exciting prizes to the grand prize of pickup trucks, the day was filled with camaraderie and fun. The zoo staff were outstanding partners, and we look forward to making next year’s event even better.

Important Changes for STAR 2026 Qualification

To qualify for STAR 2026, members must now complete two classes offered or recognized by FTI of New England. Some options include:

• OSHA 10
• CPR/First Aid
• Fall Protection
• MC/Fit
• Respiratory Protection
• MEWP
• OSHA Lead 1926.62
• AGMT Certification
• Third-party AMP classes for industrial painters

This change follows the retirement of the PFT program, replaced by the Medical Clearance/ Respirator Fit (MC/FIT) class. In this course, members will receive medical clearance and be properly fit tested for a half-face negative air respirator.

Please note:

• Pre-registration is required – do not arrive without signing up.
• Each fit test takes approximately 20 minutes per person.