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 Don Sweeten, Assistant Training Coordinator at Sprinkler Fitters Local 692 in Philadelphia.
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?
Two years.
What is your background as it relates to your job?
I have been a UA Sprinkler Fitter for 29 years. I served as service manager at Oliver Fire Protection for eight years prior to accepting my position as training coordinator at Local 692.
How did you become interested in ASSE certification programs?
It began with backflow. In our area, ASSE backflow certification is required to test and repair backflow assemblies. I first became certified in 2008. In 2011, I upgraded to the ASSE repairer certification. My position as service manager exposed me to many dealings relating to NFPA 25 and the fire sprinkler inspection process. In 2017, I was appointed to the ASSE Fire Protection Technical Committee (ASSE 15000) to assist with the operation of this standard.
What ASSE certifications are you currently offering?
Our training facility currently offers ASSE 5000 Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester and Repairer Certifications, as well as ASSE 15000 Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Certification.
Are any ASSE certifications required in your city or state?
Local 692 operates in three states and multiple townships. All of the states and townships we serve currently require ASSE 5000 Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Certification. Some require the technician to be certified to the repairer level as well. We are currently having discussions with our AHJs to adopt the ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Series 15000, Professional Qualifications Standard for the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems.
How do you get students interested in the classes you’re offering?
We have incorporated the ASSE 5000 Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester and Repairer Certifications into our fifth-year curriculum for apprenticeship. We also semi-annually offer these classes to our journeymen. Once the members obtain these certifications, we offer recertification classes as necessary to keep our field technicians certified.
What’s your favorite sports team?
Being from Philadelphia – Phillies, Flyers, Sixers, and let’s not forget the 2018 Superbowl Champion E-A-G-L-E-S!!
If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do?
I would get a safety deposit box at the bank, put the ticket in there, and call my accountant. After that, I’ve always thought about how great it would be to help the people you see on the news who truly need help. I’d remain anonymous and partner with the news station as they report – then a guardian angel comes in and helps them out.
Would you rather never have internet access again or never be able to take an airplane again?
Never be able to take a plane. I need internet … it’s weird saying that. 15 years ago, we didn’t even know what the internet was. Now we can’t live without it. There are other options to taking a plane. I don’t use a plane every day, but I use the internet every day.
What would be the worst “buy one get one free” sale of all time?
Probably a coffin … I’ll only need one.
