Wicked Local: Rockland resident named Apprentice of the Year by FTI NE
On May 10, more than 50 apprentices, including Rockland resident Kevin O’Connell, graduated from a rigorous program offered by the Finishing Trades Institute of New England.
These skilled apprentices received their diplomas at the ceremony surrounded by friends, family and their brothers and sisters in the union trades.
As demand grows for more skilled workers in the construction and finishing trades, the Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 35 and the Finishing Trades Institute of New England are working to meet the needs of the industry by training the best painters, glaziers, and tapers in the business.
“As the construction industry in Boston booms, we at IUPAT DC35 want to make sure that we train workers to continue to be the best in the finishing trades industry,” said Jeff Sullivan, business manager of IUPAT DC35. “These apprentices are the future of Boston, and now they are ready to build it as well.”
The FTI NE runs a college-accredited apprenticeship program through IUPAT DC35. The apprentices receive college credits for their academic work during the program, which they can utilize to pursue an associate’s degree.
“Every year, we have talented and hard-working apprentices coming out of the FTI NE’s accredited apprenticeship program through IUPAT DC35,” said Eric Redding, director of training at FTI NE. “These graduates are trained and ready to join the workforce.”
Five apprentices, including O’Connell, received special recognition as “Apprentices of the Year” for their exemplary dedication to learn, train and support fellow students.
“It’s a really big accomplishment,” said O’Connell. “I know I’ll have a huge career ahead of me because of this training that’s behind me.”
Article published by Wicked Local Rockland.