TRAINING
For a list of current training classes, please visit the MEMBERS section and login or register for an account to sign up for or be notified of upcoming courses.
Please call 902-442-0120 for any further assistance.
TRAINING CENTRE
In 1992 United Association (UA) Local 56 built a combined administration/training facility and meeting hall. Prior to this, training was limited and usually done on an as needed basis. Space was rented from the local Community College, which was costly and constantly put a strain on local training funds. There was no access to welding shops, which was needed to provide upgrades, and pre-test practicing was non-existent.
In early 1993, the new building was completed with a welding shop and classroom space. With these facilities the quality of our welders improved through continued availability of upgrade training, as well as providing accessibility to members for practice.
These training facilities served Local 56 well for ten years, however in 2002 it became obvious that the present training facilities were no longer adequate to meet our needs. With a solid commitment to maintain the UA philosophy of continuous training to protect and grow our market share, a change was required. An increase in membership and greater demands from industry for specialty training called for a larger facility.
In 2002, Local 56 completed an 11,000 square foot Training Centre. This building has an 18 booth welding shop, a pipe/plumbing and sprinkler training area, a residential mock module for in floor heat installation, as well as plumbing and fixture installation training. The building also has two large classrooms (including a computer lab), and four offices.
Training grants, through our Canadian and International Training Funds, allowed for the purchasing of all major equipment necessary to provide ongoing and comprehensive training programs. In the face of a growing need for re-certification and training requirements in the service industry, the old welding shop was converted into an HVAC/Refrigeration training and gas lab.
At this time, in 2002, a legal Training Trust was established to protect all training assets and keep the training assets separate from the Local 56 Union assets (should any legal action become a threat). A Board of Trustees was also created, to oversee all aspects of training, and comply with the provisions of the trust.
UA Local 56 training programs have grown with increasing demand as new technology is constantly entering the industry. This growth has enabled us to maintain the UA philosophy of providing the best training and offering the most efficient trades people and apprentices in all sectors of the piping and mechanical services industry.
