Jim Lister, New York and New England States Conference International Vice President for the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers, appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and spoke about the robust work outlook for IAHFIAW affiliated members in the Northeast.
Lister cited upcoming infrastructure work and projects to build new factories, such as multiple microchip plants and a new battery plant planned for the Upper New York area, that will keep Insulators busy. He also acknowledged the potential of a worker shortage on these projects, but hopes this may ultimately lead to an increase in the number of union members.
Besides the work outlook, Lister explained how one of his goals is to change the negative stigma about unions that is still present on job sites from the 1960s and 70s. He believes the perpetuation of this stereotype is harmful to unions and needs to be replaced by the truth — that unions help workers earn a living wage and good benefits, among other things.
Lastly, Lister spoke about the benefits of mechanical insulation and why it should be required on every job. In many instances, “value engineering” results in the elimination of mechanical insulation to save money during construction. However, he pointed out that this decision will cost the project owner money in the long run, as mechanical insulation has a return on investment that saves money over the lifespan of the mechanical system.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics.