Millwright Regional Council Introduces New Mobile Welding Training Facility

Niagara Falls, ON – June 21, 2024 – The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) is pleased to announce the launch of an innovative new project aimed at enhancing welding training for its members. This initiative, made possible through Skills Development Funding (SDF), will see the introduction of a state-of-the-art mobile welding trailer at UBC Millwright Local 1007 Niagara Falls, providing significant benefits and increasing accessibility to high-quality training.

This groundbreaking project involves a 31-foot mobile welding trailer equipped with six fully functional welding booths, a bending station, and a cooling rack. The trailer is designed to support both MIG and SMAW welding processes, enabling comprehensive, on-site training. This mobile facility not only fulfills current training requirements but will promote welding skills for UBC Millwrights across the industry.

The primary motivation behind this project is to expand the welding program and make it more accessible to the Local 1007 membership. Historically, members had to travel over 100 km for welding training, a challenge given the nature of the union millwright work, which often involves shutdowns and last-minute calls. The new mobile welding trailer offers flexibility and convenience, allowing for rapid deployment of training sessions and accommodating the members’ schedules.

Welding is a vital skill in the millwright trade, significantly contributing to job opportunities and the ability to meet industry demands. The introduction of this mobile training unit underscores the union’s commitment to investing in members’ skills and future. By providing additional training, Local 1007 not only supports current members but also strengthens its recruitment and retention efforts, particularly among apprentices.

While the current focus is on the successful deployment of the six-unit trailer, there are ambitious plans for future expansion. The vision includes establishing a larger, permanent training facility and utilizing the mobile unit for additional outreach and training purposes. This project is seen as a stepping stone towards broader goals of membership growth and enhanced training capabilities.

This project is a significant opportunity for Local Union 1007 and the Niagara region. By increasing the number of skilled welders, Local 1007 and the MRC can better support local industry partners and address the industry’s demand for qualified personnel. The initiative is expected to strengthen relationships with existing industry partners and open doors to new partnerships within the industry.

The introduction of the mobile welding trailer is an example of how the MRC is dedicated to advancing member skills and supporting the industry. This initiative not only meets immediate training needs but also sets the stage for future growth and development. Local 1007 and the MRC look forward to the positive impact this project will have on members, the industry, and the Niagara community.

About the Millwright Regional Council

The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) is composed of thirteen affiliated Local Unions of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) across Canada. UBC millwrights are vital partners in diverse industries such as energy, automotive, aerospace, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. ubcmillwrights.ca

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