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?
In this issue, we’ll get to know Derek Miles, assistant training director for Sprinkler Fitters Local 483 in the San Francisco Bay Area.
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 have been a member with Sprinkler Fitters Local 483 for over 27 years, having joined in 1997. In addition, I have served as an instructor for our local since 2011, bringing over a decade of teaching experience to our training program.
What is your background as it relates to your occupation?
I am a second-generation member of Sprinkler Fitters Local 483. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the values and dedication that come with being a hard-working union member, as my father owned his own company within our local. As a young man, I spent time cleaning his shop after school, which gave me a unique perspective on the industry. During my senior year of high school, I was fortunate enough to be accepted into the apprenticeship program and began my journey as a sprinkler fitter in August, right after graduating.
How did you become interested in the ASSE certification programs?
I have always believed in leading by example, which is why I became interested in the ASSE certification programs. When I learned about the ASSE 15010 certification program for Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance, and heard that it was a challenging course, I felt compelled to take it. After successfully completing the class, I returned to Local 483 to share the value of the ASSE 15010 course with our membership and encourage others to pursue this opportunity for professional growth.
What ASSE certifications are you currently offering?
Sprinkler Fitters Local 483 currently offers a range of ASSE certifications to enhance professional skills and expertise. These include the ASSE 15010 certification for Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, which covers the inspection, testing and maintenance of fire protection systems. Additionally, we provide the ASSE 12060 and 12063 certifications, focusing on Infection Control and Water Quality, equipping members with the necessary skills to manage and ensure safe environments in health care and other sensitive facilities.
Why are the Asse 15010 certification important to your school?
The ASSE 15010 certification is crucial to our school because it is highly sought after by our Journey members, reflecting its value and relevance in the industry. We offer this course at least three times a year, and each session is consistently filled to capacity. This demand underscores the certification’s importance in enhancing the skills and knowledge of our members, ensuring they are well equipped to excel in the field of water-based fire protection systems inspection, testing and maintenance.
How do you get students interested in the classes you are offering?
Getting students interested in the classes we offer is actually quite straightforward. The Journey members of Sprinkler Fitters Local 483 who have completed these classes often spread the word among those who haven’t yet enrolled. Earning the ASSE 15010 certification requires significant effort, and members take great pride in achieving it. This certification is regarded as a badge of honor, and both fellow members and contractors recognize and respect those who have accomplished this. The sense of achievement and the professional respect that comes with the certification naturally inspires others to participate.
What is your biggest accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment by far is my marriage to my beautiful wife, Jennifer. I met her when I was just 15 years old and knew right away that she was the one I would marry. Three years later, we tied the knot, and we’ve never looked back. Jennifer has been my greatest advocate and has always provided me with sound advice, helping me grow into the person I am today.
What is your favorite way to spend a weekend?
My favorite way to spend a weekend is to escape to the Bitterroot Valley of Montana with my wife, Jennifer. We both have a deep love for the outdoors, and Montana is the perfect setting for our adventures. I like to start the morning fishing on the picturesque Bitterroot River, where I try to catch amazing cutthroat, rainbow and brown Trout. In the afternoons, we love hiking in the Bitterroot Mountain Range. On warm days, we enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking on Lake Como. It’s these shared experiences that bring us closer and create lasting memories.
What is a book that you would recommend?
I highly recommend the book Guts, Grit & The Grind by Sally Spencer-Thomas, Sarah W. Gaer and Frank King. The book serves as a reminder that, just as we focus on physical health and professional skills such as taking the ASSE 15010 class on the inspection, testing and maintenance of water-based fire suppression systems, we must also prioritize our mental health and engage in preventative maintenance to ensure we are at our best and in good working order.
What is your favorite family recipe?
My favorite family recipe is chile verde. My wife, Jennifer, has been perfecting this recipe for over 20 years, and it has set such a high standard that I find it nearly impossible to enjoy any other version.
