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Hundreds of operating engineers and construction professionals are receiving hands-on training, thanks to arecent donation of pipe and precast structures from County Materials Corporation. Using these concrete products, trainees at the Wisconsin Operating Engineers Local 139, in Coloma Wis., are better prepared to work safely and efficiently through real-world training exercises.
The Local 139 Operating Engineers apprenticeship program is one of the largest of its kind in North America, training more than 200 workers per day to operate heavy machinery. The organization’s mission is to train workers across the state to create safer job site conditions and reduce injuries. Their Joseph J. Goetz training site in Coloma, Wis. gives workers access to nearly 400 acres to hone their skills.
In February 2018, County Materials delivered 48 reinforced concrete pipes, two manhole bases, two manhole risers and two manhole cones. The donated precast structures are primarily used in the organization’s Advanced Sewer and Excavation Courses, where trainees work to excavate, install, and remove the structures in exercises modeled after real construction projects.
“By having materials here, we can create real-life situations that the members will be actually doing in the field. It’s instrumental to a trainee’s success in finding a job, performing their job well, and maintaining safety,” said Ken Miller, an instructor for the Local 139. “We can’t say thank you enough for these donations and County Materials’ commitment to the industry.”