During last November's Open House, Local 149 instructor Andy Currie provided a high school student with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in pipefitting. At the beginning of the week, officials from Parkland College and the University of Illinois, along with Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski, will tour the training facility.
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SAVOY - One year after opening its state-of-the-art training center, United Association Local 149 will host U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski and officials from Parkland College, the University of Illinois, and the chemical industry for a tour on Tuesday at 3 p.m. The event, held at the 24,000 square-foot facility on North Dunlap Avenue, will focus on economic growth and local job opportunities created by the training center. Rep. Budzinski is known for advocating higher wages, better benefits, and workplace safety protections for firefighters, grocery workers, and meatpackers. She led efforts to raise Illinois' minimum wage to $15 an hour and chaired the Broadband Advisory Board to expand internet access in rural communities. During her time at the White House’s Office of Management and Budget, she helped implement the American Rescue Plan and establish the Made in America Office to bring jobs back to the U.S. and strengthen the economy. Budzinski was elected to Congress in 2023, representing Illinois’ 13th District. Local 149 provides world-class training, such as specialized instruction in medical gas piping services, helping members meet industry needs.
Trustee Dave Smithenry demonstrates troubleshooting air conditioning systems at last year's Open House.
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The tour will feature hands-on demonstrations from union members and interviews with apprentices, union officials, and representatives from the Chemical Industry Council of Illinois and the American Chemistry Council. The event highlights Local 149’s role in preparing its 600 members, including plumbers, pipefitters, and HVAC technicians, for the growing job market in the chemical manufacturing sector. In addition to meeting the needs of its customers by mastering various piping systems and prioritizing the safety of its members and customers, the members of Local 149 are committed to delivering exceptional service on every project. Members also support the communities in which they live by donating resources and countless hours to charitable organizations, including the United Way, the Salvation Army, the March of Dimes, and many local causes. The union is currently accepting applications for its 2025 apprentice class. For more information call (217) 359-5201.
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