UA Local 296 Copper Welding Showcase

Critical Systems would like to recognize one of our partners in the local community: United Association (UA) Local 296 in Meridian, Idaho. 

UA Local 296 is a union of plumbing and pipefitting professionals based in Meridian, Idaho. UA 296 and is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of working-class families in Idaho through active community engagement and representation of workers in the piping industry. ​ 

Michael Parker and Nate Bendlin have been tremendous help to Critical Systems.  Initially we reached out to them about hosting our first ever copper orbital welding demonstration. They were all in, providing us with a place for the demonstration and reaching out to their contacts to get people to come and attend the demonstration.  Their insight and advice have been and continue to be a tremendous help with the project.  Currently Nate is designing a hospital wall mockup for us to provide more copper welding demonstrations.

In addition to their union activities, UA Local 296 offers apprenticeship programs in plumbing, pipefitting, welding, and HVAC through the Southwestern Idaho Plumbers and Pipefitters Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC). These programs provide individuals with valuable skills and career opportunities in the trades.  UA 296 will be hosting their Apprentice of the Year Contest on April 18th and 19th and have invited us over to see the competition.  We will be there supporting the welders!

CSI would like to give special thanks to the entire UA and all they do to support the development of a highly trained professional workforce. This work they do is fundamental to the success of our country, its businesses and the people that can and do make a difference.

Ted introducing CSI's patented copper orbital welding to members of UA 296.

Josh fitting a "T" pipe in preparation for orbital welding.

Jorge and Josh showing off a copper orbital weld in action.