In each issue of Working Pressure, we ask 10 questions to a training coordinator or instructor of an ASSE-approved training provider. Some questions are work related, some are personal, and others are just for fun. We learn our trade through local colleagues, mentors, and instructors, but what can we learn from others across the country? Let’s learn about the people we learn from. In this issue, we’ll get to know Chuck McKnight, Training Coordinator for Local 25 Plumbers & Pipefitters JATC in Rock Island, IL.
If you’d like us to ask 10 questions to your ASSE-approved training coordinator or instructor, send us a note telling us why at editor@workingpressuremag.com.
How long have you been affiliated with your training center/school?
I was an apprentice from 2002-2007 and became a Journeyman Plumber in 2007. In 2008, I started teaching night classes (Medical Gas, Advanced Plan Reading, Builders Level/Transit), and in 2011 I started teaching full-time day school as a Plumbing Instructor. In 2018, I became the Training Coordinator for Local 25 Plumbers & Pipefitters JATC and I still teach some classes as well.
What is your background as it relates to your occupation?
I have been an Apprentice, Journeyman, Foreman, General Foreman, Instructor, and Training Coordinator. I also served in the United States Marine Corps from 1996 to 2000 as a heavy equipment operator with Combat Engineers, which also ties into construction. I have found many similarities between the Marine Corps and the United Association, such as structure, training, leadership, etc.
How did you become interested in ASSE certification programs?
We offer many ASSE certifications through our training center and I have attended several classes affiliated with ASSE – mostly at the UA Instructor Training Program in Ann Arbor, Mich.
What ASSE certifications are you currently offering?
We are currently offering ASSE 5000 (Backflow Prevention), ASSE 6000 (Medical Gas Systems), and ASSE 7000 (Residential Potable Water Fire Protection System) classes. The ASSE 7010 Residential Potable Water Fire Protection System Installers for One- and Two-Family Dwellings Certification is slowly gaining traction. I see it mainly being utilized in the multi-unit markets right now, since it hasn’t really caught on in the single house markets around here. However, a lot of the residences with common walls are starting to require it. Unfortunately, until someone is directly impacted in a negative way by something, there is hesitancy to invest or spend a little extra money. Once something bad happens, then people see the value of fire sprinklers, stronger codes, backflow preventers, etc.
Are any ASSE certifications required in your city or state?
We teach Iowa backflow, which accepts ASSE certification. ASSE 6000 Medical Gas Certification is required by many hospitals/job specs. Residential Potable Water Fire Protection System Certification is slowly catching on in our area.
How do you get students interested in the classes you are offering?
The students care about the industry they are learning and getting into. Plus, most are required to take the classes during their apprenticeship.
What have you been doing to keep sane during this pandemic?
To keep sane, I have been working a lot. We have been catching up on classes that were cancelled in early 2020 due to Covid-19.
Name something positive that came out of this pandemic:
We were forced to embrace the technology/digital side of things and I see that as the biggest positive that came from this pandemic. Our training center had been dabbling with online classes and technology, and we were forced to move more in that direction. Every apprentice is now issued an iPad and we’ve been utilizing Blackboard platforms more and more. We had previously been dragging our feet on the digital stuff because there had been no real impetus to transition.
Who did you want to win the Super Bowl this year?
I wanted Tom Brady to win the Super Bowl this year. I like his professionalism and ability to lead his teams.
What/Who is your favorite band/musician?
My favorite musicians are Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard.
