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All in the Blue Collar Family: Plumber

by with No Comment BusinessCommunityWorkplace

The expertise of plumbers extends beyond fixing leaks and unclogging drains. They ensure the seamless flow of water and effectively remove waste from our homes and businesses, bringing comfort and sanitation to our daily lives. From water supply systems to gas lines and sewage disposal, plumbers are valuable guardians of our health and well-being.

The term “plumbing” is derived from the Latin “plumbus,” meaning “lead,” which is what some of the earliest pipes built by ancient Romans were made of. While lead is no longer used, having been replaced by materials such as copper and PVP, the systems of civilizations thousands of years ago remain an excellent representation of the significance the plumbing trade has had on society.

History of Plumbing

Some historians believe that plumbing can be traced back to at least 3000 BC in the Indus Valley and Babylonia, where evidence of wells and drains has been found. However, the most notable evidence of advanced plumbing systems is generally associated with ancient Rome, where intricate aqueducts and sewage systems transported water in and waste out of their cities, emphasizing cleanliness and health consciousness.

Fast forward to the 19th century, urbanization led to the widespread adoption of indoor plumbing in the industrialized world, transforming the plumber’s role into a vital component of modern society and significantly enhancing overall comfort and sanitation. As the industry has developed, new technologies and regulations have continued to improve the operation of fixtures and ensure the safety of the individuals who utilize water and waste systems.

The Role of Plumbers

Plumbers today are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining pipe fixtures, typically in residential and commercial buildings. Their work involves directing water, and sometimes gas, to and from facilities through complex systems, ensuring the proper function of appliances like showers, sinks, and toilets. They are called to install new piping and perform repairs as needed.

What Plumbers Do

Plumbers are crucial in safeguarding public health by ensuring access to clean water and proper waste disposal. Some of their typical responsibilities include:

  1. Installation of Plumbing Systems: Plumbers are responsible for accurately installing and connecting piping systems for water supply, heating, and sewage disposal in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
  1. Following Blueprints and Specifications: Plumbers must interpret architectural plans and specifications while working closely with architects, contractors, and other construction professionals to ensure that plumbing systems are designed and installed according to the project’s requirements.
  1. Diagnosing and Repairing Plumbing Issues: Plumbers identify and troubleshoot problems such as leaks, clogs, or malfunctions in plumbing systems, employing their expertise to provide effective and lasting solutions.
  1. Ensuring Compliance with Codes and Regulations: Plumbers adhere to local and national plumbing codes and regulations, ensuring that their work meets safety and quality standards set by governing authorities.
  1. Maintenance of Plumbing Systems: Plumbers are responsible for the inspection and maintenance of plumbing systems, including cleaning and adjusting, as well as communicating with clients to offer guidance on proper usage, thus preventing potential issues and extending the lifespan of installations.

Becoming a Plumber

Becoming a plumber is a journey that combines practical skills, technical knowledge, and a commitment to providing excellent service. The process of becoming a plumber generally involves:

  1. Education: Before becoming an apprentice, an aspiring plumber must be 18 and have a high school diploma or equivalent. They must then apply for a plumbing apprentice license, which they typically become eligible for by being accepted into an apprenticeship position.
  1. Apprenticeship: The next step involves learning the ropes under the guidance of experienced mentors, often by watching a journeyman or master plumber. At the same time, they work and perform simple tasks such as cleaning and organizing tools.
  1. Licensing: To practice independently and perform more complicated tasks, plumbers must receive a “journeyman” plumbing license. This commonly requires at least four years of experience in an apprenticeship role and passing a state board exam.
  1. Continuous Learning: Becoming a “master plumber” similarly requires at least two years of experience as a journeyman plumber and passing an exam. Some states may also require proof of knowledge in specific areas of plumbing, such as irrigation or high-rise residential systems. Once a master plumber earns their license, they can open their own plumbing business and hire junior staff.
  1. Specialization: Advanced plumbers may choose to focus on residential, commercial, or industrial projects or specialize in areas such as pipefitting, steamfitting, or even green plumbing, which emphasizes sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

Plumbing is a dynamic and essential profession that has evolved over centuries to meet the ever-changing needs of society and remains integral to our health, safety, and the sustainability of our communities. And, as long as humans continue to use water and produce waste, it will continue to be a valuable trade for the inevitable future.

For more about blue-collar jobs, check out The Beauty Behind Blue Collar Work, All in the Blue Collar Family: Welder, and All in the Blue Collar Family: Electrician.

For more articles From the Plant, check out our blog.

14

All in the Blue Collar Family: Electrician

by with No Comment BusinessManufacturingWorkplace

Electricians have an incredibly valuable role in modern society, from ensuring our homes are comfortable and safe to bringing power to our industries and businesses. They are responsible for installing and maintaining the electrical systems necessary for the appliances we use each day, such as refrigerators, heaters, lights, and, perhaps most importantly, the outlets that charge our cell phones. Imagine life without all that!

Electricity, the invisible force that powers our modern lives, is a marvel we often take for granted. And behind every light that brightens our homes and every outlet that charges our devices stands a skilled electrician who has mastered the art of controlling electricity.

History of Electricians

Electricity is a natural force that has existed since the dawn of time. However, it wasn’t until the late 18th century that scientists began to study it truly. The efforts to understand the invisible power began when Benjamin Franklin (you know, the guy with the key and the kite) proved that lightning and electricity are the same thing. His experiments inspired other iconic figures such as Luigi Galvani, whose discoveries led to the voltaic pile, Alessandro Volta, the creator of the first electric batteries, and Thomas Edison, the inventor of the electric light bulb.

Near the end of the 19th century, inventors began taking their electrically powered equipment to show off at significant exhibitions and world fairs, such as the 1889 Paris Exhibition and the 1893 World Columbian Exposition in Chicago. During these events, electricians were hired to build and operate the inventions, sparking a significant increase in the prevalence of the profession. As electricity has continued to power more homes, cities, appliances, and other machines over the past few centuries, the need for skilled technicians has grown exponentially.

The Role of Electricians

Electricians are the architects of our electrical infrastructure. Their primary responsibility is to design, install, maintain, and repair electrical systems that power our homes and businesses. This encompasses many tasks, from wiring buildings and installing electrical panels to troubleshooting electrical issues and ensuring safety compliance. They have the crucial job of keeping the lights on, the heaters running, and the devices charging, and they are instrumental in nearly every aspect of our daily lives.

What Electricians Do

The role of electricians in society is nothing short of pivotal, and they perform a myriad of essential tasks, such as:

1. Installation: They set up electrical systems in new construction projects, ensuring that power flows safely and reliably throughout a building to areas such as electrical outlets, light fixtures, and ventilation systems.

2. Maintenance: Electricians conduct regular inspections and maintenance of systems to prevent electrical malfunctions and ensure safety.

3. Repair: When electrical systems falter, electricians diagnose the issue and implement the necessary repairs promptly.

4. Upgrades: As technology advances, electricians upgrade systems to meet modern energy efficiency standards and technological requirements.

5. Safety: Electricians are responsible for enforcing electrical safety codes to protect people and property from electrical hazards.

Becoming an Electrician

The journey to becoming a skilled electrician usually involves:

1. Education: Aspiring electricians typically start with a high school diploma and then enter a vocational or technical school to gain foundational knowledge.

2. Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships combine practical learning with on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced electricians.

3. Licensing: Most jurisdictions require electricians to obtain a license, which involves passing an exam to demonstrate their knowledge and competence. New electricians who have completed an apprenticeship and earned their license are called “journeymen.”

4. Continued Learning: To become a “master electrician,” an individual must practice for at least two years and pass an exam. Electricians must also stay updated with changes in electrical codes and emerging technologies through ongoing training and education.

5. Skills Development: Electricians continue developing their skills through real-world experience and may specialize in specific areas such as residential, commercial, or industrial work.

The journey from the experiments of early electrical pioneers to the indispensable professionals of today is a testament to electricians’ profound impact on our society. Their profession empowers us to harness the energy that fuels progress, ensuring that currents flow smoothly and safely through our everyday lives.

For more about blue-collar jobs, check out The Beauty Behind Blue-Collar Work, Top Seven Reasons to Work in Manufacturing, and All in the Blue Collar Family: Welder.

For more articles From the Plant, check out our blog.

12

All in the Blue Collar Family: Welder

by with No Comment BusinessManufacturingWorkplace

Welders, the architects of metal fusion, are indispensable to the modern world. They wield their skills to forge connections that support our daily lives, crafting everything from towering skyscrapers to intricate art pieces. Often perceived as a modern marvel, welding carries a history nearly as old as human civilization itself. 

Welding is an ancient craft with a modern twist that plays a vital role in shaping our world. It’s more than just melting metals together – the alchemy that bonds structures, pipelines, and bridges. Here’s a look into the rich history of welding, how it works, and the indispensable role of welders in society.

History of Welding

Welding, in some form, dates back to about 3000 BC, when ancient Egyptians and Greeks used bronze to create boxes, jewelry, utensils, and weapons via pressure welding. By around 1500 BC, iron smelting became more common, and people in the Middle East began making swords and other tools using heat. Over the next several millennia, metals such as copper, silver, and gold also became popular. Then, in the Middle Ages, blacksmiths entered the scene and introduced a hammering method for forging iron tools.

Modern welding as we know it started taking shape in the 19th century with discoveries such as the ability to produce an arc between two carbon electrodes by Sir Humphry Davy and the hydrocarbon gas acetylene by his cousin, Edmund Davy. In 1881, Russian inventor Nikolai Benardos combined these findings and patented the arc welding process, marking a significant turning point in welding history. Today, there are over 100 welding processes, with more being constantly developed to fit the needs of various projects.

The Role of Welders

Welders are crucial when it comes to construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing. Their primary role is to permanently join metals, creating structures ranging from skyscrapers to pipelines to delicate art pieces. They ensure the strength and integrity of these structures, making the world around us safe and functional.

While there are many welding methods, they nearly all require the same three basic components: an electrical device that produces an arc, a protective shield, and filler material. The process involves generating intense heat to melt the edges of two metal pieces and allowing them to fuse when they cool. Precision and expertise are essential, as welders must meet specific standards and codes to guarantee the safety and quality of their work.

Welding in Various Industries

Welders are undoubtedly the backbone of numerous industries. Here are just a few:

  1. Construction: Residential and office buildings like apartments and skyscrapers, as well as other structures like bridges and tunnels, rely on welders to join steel beams, trusses, columns, and other elements to form solid foundations.
  1. Manufacturing: Welders create machinery, vehicles, and other equipment critical to producing goods.
  1. Infrastructure: Gas and oil pipelines, railways, and power plants depend on welders for maintenance and expansion.
  1. Automotive: Between assembly and repairs, vehicles such as cars, trucks, and motorbikes require thousands of welds to ensure they are put together properly and securely.
  1. Aerospace: Skilled welders are vital to building safe and operational aircraft, such as airplanes and helicopters, and spacecraft, such as rockets and satellites.
  1. Art: Welding can be a medium for artists to express their creativity and craftsmanship; metalwork is often used to create impressive sculptures.

Becoming a Welder

The path to becoming a skilled welder often involves:

  1. Education: At a basic level, most welding jobs require an associate’s degree from an accredited school. Many vocational schools and community colleges offer welding programs that cover techniques, metallurgy, safety procedures, blueprint reading, and other useful skills.
  1. Apprenticeships: Some aspiring welders choose apprenticeships, learning on the job under the guidance of experienced mentors.
  1. Certifications: Achieving industry-recognized certifications, such as those offered by the American Welding Society (AWS), can enhance career prospects.
  1. Experience: Gaining hands-on experience and developing a portfolio of work is crucial for advancement in the field.
  1. Continuous Learning: Welders must stay updated with evolving technologies and techniques to remain competitive in the job market.

Welders are modern-day alchemists, shaping our world through their craft, and their work bridges gaps, connects communities, and supports industries. In a world defined by progress and innovation, welders emerge as architects of connectivity, forging the future with sparks of skill and artistry.

If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy The Beauty Behind Blue Collar Work.

For more articles From the Plant, check out our blog.

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Light the River: API Sponsors a Night for the Bolton Refuge House

by CommunityWorkplace

On April 12 and 25, 2023, API will sponsor a day of Bolton Refuge House’s annual Light the River event. To honor Sexual Assault Awareness Month, BRH will be coloring the Phoenix Park Bridge teal throughout April to raise awareness and support survivors of sexual violence within the community.

If you’re an Eau Claire local, you’ve probably caught a glimpse of the Phoenix Park Bridge lit up in just about any color at one point or another, sponsored by organizations and individuals for their events and celebrations.

For the past few years, Bolton Refuge House (BRH) has organized a month-long Light the River event in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Throughout April, the bridge lights will remain teal (the designated color for SAAM), supported by generous donors to raise awareness and enact community change.

Bolton Refuge House is a non-profit organization that provides services for individuals affected by domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. They operate the only 24/7 emergency shelter in Eau Claire and aim to support survivors on their journey to physical and emotional safety through services such as counseling, support groups, legal advocacy, and community education.

American Phoenix, Inc. is proud to be one of the sponsors of the Light the River event, showing support for BRH’s mission to provide resources to survivors of sexual violence.

“They’re amazing,” says Rena, API HR. “BRH offers a lot of valuable services that I’m sure a lot of women don’t even know about.”

By coloring the bridge teal for the month, Bolton Refuge House hopes to convey its dedication to fighting to end sexual violence within the community. This will be the organization’s third annual Light the River event since 2021 and API’s second year as a sponsor.

“When I saw this come through last year, I just thought this kind of stuff is important,” says Rena. “It’s important to spread awareness. So, we’re going to do it again this year.”

While an enormous number of well-deserving organizations need contributions, American Phoenix, Inc. is mindful of choosing causes to give to that accurately reflect the company’s values and authentically represent what is meaningful to its employees.

“Part of our goal is to get more involved in the community, and we want to make sure we’re making good choices with things we really do support and that are important to us,” says Rena. “We don’t just want to donate. It needs to be meaningful.”

API will be sponsoring Bolton Refuge House’s Light the River event supporting Sexual Assault Awareness Month on April 12 and 25, 2023.

To learn more about the Bolton Refuge House, please visit: https://www.boltonrefuge.org/

Additional information for survivors of sexual assault can be found on the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website here: https://www.rainn.org/ or by calling the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.

For more articles From the Plant, check out our blog.