Local 99 Grads Keep Their Cool

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)

After more than 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 600 hours in the classroom, 14 students graduated last month from the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 99 Joint Apprentice-ship Committee training program. Operating engineers make sure the air conditioning, heat, ventilation, light, and power are working in buildings, industrial plants, and other worksites throughout Washington, operating and maintaining automated or computerized control systems, stationary engines, and auxiliary equipment such as boilers, generators and pollution control devices. The 2010 IUOE 99 graduating class is "a great testament to the high standards Local 99 has always brought to training," Local 99 Lead Organizer Eamon Clifford told Union City, "They really stepped up to the plate and they should be proud of all they have accomplished." This year's class Valedictorian was Randy Russell from PM Services Company, while Justin Barber from Louis Dreyfus Property Group and Nebiat Gebremariam from Vornado/Charles E. Smith were recognized as honor students. "We are very proud of you all," said Local 99 Business Manager Michael Murphy. - photo courtesy Local 99