Fitter Talk

In this Suicide Awareness Month episode, Fitter Talk host Curtis Ohlde is joined by Joe Hawk (UA Local 100, Dallas) and Omar Galindo (UA Local 78, Los Angeles) for a powerful conversation about mental health, peer support, and suicide prevention in the trades.The group reflects on their teaching experiences at ITP, noting how the new classroom facilities and auditorium provided a much better learning environment. They also highlight the importance of tailoring mental health toolbox talks to the realities of the trade, ensuring that messages are relatable and impactful.Both Joe and Omar share deeply personal stories—Joe about his struggles with substance abuse, and Omar about living with PTSD and overcoming suicide attempts. Their openness underscores the importance of breaking stigma and creating safe spaces for conversation.The discussion dives into Pipe Pals, a peer-led suicide prevention network, and the UA’s mental health training programs (2171 & 2172), which equip members with practical peer support skills. They also discuss strategies for expanding Vital Cog training, integrating it into OSHA classes, and reaching apprentices, journeymen, and foremen across the country.Throughout the conversation, Curtis, Joe, and Omar emphasize the power of peer support, self-care, and asking for help—reminding listeners that seeking support is a sign of strength. They also touch on new benefit programs and upcoming training sessions aimed at supporting members’ overall well-being.Resources988 - 988lifeline.orgUA Pipe Pals - ua.org/pipe-palsUA Local 533 - www.local533.com/?zone=/unionactive/view_page.cfm&page=53320Peer20SupportFitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C., and may be reached at [email protected].

In this week’s episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Pete and Craig to share exciting updates from the Training Center—including the launch of new classes and the addition of the South Block rental building to support the growth of apprenticeship programs. They also wrap up a busy week in Ann Arbor at the UA Instructor Training Program.The conversation then shifts to recent travels: Craig’s trip to Germany, Pete’s getaway to Aruba, and Curtis’s journey to Alaska, where he connected with UA Local members in Anchorage, explored Denali, and experienced an Alaskan cruise. These opportunities highlight the value and reach of organized labor, especially as we head into Labor Day weekend—a reminder of the hard-fought gains from the 8-hour workday to the benefits unions provide today.Looking ahead to September, the group discusses the importance of suicide prevention and mental health awareness—not just this month, but every day. Craig emphasizes the power of checking in on one another, while Curtis challenges listeners to include suicide prevention messages in upcoming toolbox talks. Remember: resources are available, and dialing 988 can connect you with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.Fitter Talk is a production of Cowtown Productions L.L.C. and may be reached via email [email protected]

Episode 25 – Summer Updates, Instructor Training Prep, and Orbital Welding with Jacob MorganIn this milestone 25th episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde is joined by Pete for a mid-summer check-in. With Summer Break already more than halfway through, the two dive into current events and preparations underway at the training center as they gear up for the United Association's Instructor Training Program (ITP) and the return of classes.The conversation then shifts to Pete’s first experience with Morgan Industrial Technology (MIT), setting the stage for this episode’s guest: Jacob Morgan. Jacob shares the origins of MIT, its relationship with Arc Machines Inc. (AMI), and their cutting-edge equipment line.The discussion takes a deeper dive into the world of Orbital Welding—Jacob breaks down the process, technology, and the growing demand across the industry.If you’re into welding tech, training insights, and where the industry is headed, you won’t want to miss this one. Enjoy Episode 25 of Fitter Talk!Morgan Industrial Technology-www.morganitech.comFitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

We're back! After a bit of a break, what better way to kick off a holiday weekend filled with fireworks than by talking safety? 🎆In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde is joined by Pete Smith during breaktime to chat about current events, fireworks safety, and tips for staying safe on the water this summer.Then, Curtis sits down with Rita Neiderheiser from Sprinkler Fitters Local 669 to discuss life in the trade, her journey through the ranks, and her role as a safety instructor for the UA—teaching courses like the OSHA-502 refresher.Packed with insight, stories, and reminders to keep safety top of mind, this episode is the perfect way to ease into your holiday weekend.Enjoy Episode 24 of Fitter Talk!Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C., and may be contacted via email [email protected].

Welcome back to Fitter Talk! Your host, Curtis Ohlde, returns from a short sabbatical as he embarks on his new role as the HVAC Training Coordinator for Pipefitters Local 533 Training Center. In today’s episode, Curtis is joined by Craig for a special Breaktime news segment where they catch up on summer highlights, the start of the school year, and the important topic of Suicide Awareness.This week’s guest is Jason Cornett, Refrigeration Technical Manager at Henderson Engineers Inc. in Lenexa, Kansas. Jason dives into his background and offers insights into Henderson Engineers before exploring the growing trend of CO2 in commercial refrigeration, including installation practices and material considerations. He also discusses the use of propane in commercial refrigeration systems.This episode is packed with technical information that we hope you find enlightening! To wrap things up, Jason shares details about an upcoming disc golf tournament hosted by Henderson. Interested participants can reach out to him via email at [email protected] Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions, L.L.C. For inquiries, contact us at [email protected]. Enjoy the show!

Join host Curtis Ohlde in this episode of Fitter Talk as he sits down with Angela White, a key figure at Holmberg Mechanical based in the Seattle, Washington Area. As a signatory contractor with UA Local 32, Holmberg Mechanical boasts a rich history in the mechanical industry. Angela shares her personal journey within the company, highlighting her various roles and experiences before and during her tenure. She also sheds light on her husband Jeff's remarkable progression from plumbing apprentice with Local 32 to becoming the owner and CEO of Holmberg Mechanical.As September approaches, Holmberg Mechanical gears up to celebrate an impressive milestone - 75 years in the mechanical industry. Angela delves into the company's achievements, including notable awards, and offers insights into the diverse industries Holmberg serves. Moreover, Angela discusses her recent completion of the UA2172 Advanced Peer Support and Suicide Awareness Program, making Holmberg the first contractor to undertake the initiative with UA. She shares why the company deemed it essential to undergo such training and how they are implementing the VitalCog program to benefit Holmberg employees.Tune in for a fascinating conversation that encapsulates the legacy, values, and forward-thinking approach of Holmberg Mechanical.For more information about Holmberg Mechanical, https://holmbergco.com/.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions and may be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk we go back to "Tech Talk" as host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Victaulic Rep, Nathan Noland.  Nathan share a little about his background before coming to his current role with Victaulic.  Victalulic was first started in London in 1919 as Victory Pipe Joint Company as part of the war effort.  Then in 1924 came to North America.  Nathan shares the various industries as well as materials that Victaulic is involved in.  Nathan also shares that there is a different between manufactures of groove piping as well as with the couplings and gaskets used.  Then goes over some of the newer products and updates to the product line then finishes with the importance of proper training.Nathan shares his contact information mobile- 816.520.7742 or [email protected].  You may also find out more about Victaulic at https://www.victaulic.com.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

For this Episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with co-instructor Craig Hickson to go over current events.  A regular interview will not be part of this episode due to some scheduling conflicts but be sure to look for those as they will likely drop weekly until caught back up on regular schedule.  Noted in Breaktime from episode 1, Jack Hicklin was in the hospital but in the intro, announced that he passed on Friday April 26th.Curtis also shared in breaktime that the Strong Hands to Stronger Minds Foundation website should be getting launched anytime.  Be on the look out for it, for resources and awareness.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions, L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected]

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down once again in his home away from home (Holiday Inn Express) to talk with Steve Parsons a member of UA Pipefitter Local 537 in Boston, Massachusetts.  Steve starts out sharing about Cathy Merkel the 35+ years Registrar for the International Training Fund.  Tuesday of this week, Cathy sent out her final email to all who are involved with the ITF.  Steve then shares his background as a 2nd generation Pipefitter and then talks about his 44+ years as a member of Local 537.  Steve shares about the types of jobs he's worked on over the years, challenges, changes then talks about his time as a Training Instructor for the Local since 2000.  From his local and getting CCO Trained in 2010, Steve shared his involvement with teaching rigging during ITP as well as regionally for the UA5011 class.  Steve then goes over the History of 537 going back to 1911, challenges of working in Boston and the types of different Industries 537 works in.  In addition, Steve shares about 537's new Training Facility and the challenges of building a Training Facility in Boston.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, unfortunately coming out two weeks later than planned.  Host Curtis Ohlde once again sits down with Craig for catching up on some current events along with Backflow Classes that Craig will have coming up.  Then kicks off an new series on Why to use Union Labor with lead Engineer at KU Med Center, Jeff Gilliland.  Jeff gives a little introduction to his background and duties along with clarifying the difference between KU Med Center and the KU Hospital.  Jeff then shares how contractors are selected along with their On-Call Contractors and even with Kansas being Right To Work State, it's Union Contractors who are the most competitive in getting awarded contracts.  Jeff also shares what he feels are some of the advantages to using Union Labor specifically Pipefitters and Plumbers.

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits back down with the One & Only, Pat O'Hara.  Didn't realize while recording but we have a fan hummin in the background, so please bare with until we can re-edit and see about isolating to remove.  Pat shares current events coming up with the local then some of his takeaways from the Construction Working Minds Summit.  Curtis shares some of his as well and as they both look to take what was learned to help improve the Peer Support Program for Local 533.  In addition the Construction Working Minds Summit, Curtis had the opportunity to attend the Military Wellness Program hosted by Lineman Local 53 and a pre-conference session on Peer Allies.  The program the UA has put together with Dr. Sally for the UA 2171 and UA 2172 classes, Curtis would suggest anyone interested and available to take.Curtis then had the opportunity to sit down with Ben Bradshaw, Business Manager for UA Local 100 in the lobby of the conference for Ben to share about LU 100's history and work.  Then Ben shares about LU 100 get involved with Mental Health Awareness and support.  For more information about UA Local 100; https://ualocal100.org/.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde is joined by Tresa Reece with LU 50 and Carrie Crosby of LU 23 to talk about the two of them recently attending the Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference December 1-3, 2023.  We catch up with Tresa who was on the podcast with her husband Frank in Episode 2.  Then get introduced to Carrie as she shares her story about getting in the trade then giving us some history of LU 23 in Rockford, IL.Tresa and Carrie share their past years involvement with the conference and what it has allowed them to do locally.  In addition they share their takeaways from speakers, workshops and the parade.  Next year the conference will be in New Orleans and it advised to get registered asap.  The conference is hosted by the North American Trade Union which they both shared information about NABTU.For more information about the Conference check out the following websites as well as groups on facebook.https://nabtu.org/twbn/https://www2.nabtu.org/forms/meeting/Microsite/2023TWBNFitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Max Kobelski a trainer with Turbocor to learn about oil-less magnetic bearing technology.  First, Max shares a little bit of the history of the compressor to current date then talks about the evolution of the compressor over time.  In addition Max shares some of more technical aspects of the compressor then gets into why trainer is so critical.  Then wrap up with training opportunities through Turbocor at the Headquarters and other UA Training facilities around the country as well as the certification being offered during ITP this year as part of the 6015 class.  For more information on that class reach out to Robert Vilches, Curtis or Duane who will be co-teaching the class.  Expect to have more information about that class by May 1st.  For more information about Turbocor, check out the website at https://www.danfoss.com/en/products/dcs/compressors/turbocor/.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits back down with Pat O'Hara for an extended Break Time as they bring current events to UA LU 533 while attending the MCAA 2024 Safety Conference in Tucson, Arizona.  In addition they share some of the takeaways of the conference and some of the information they will be taking back to the Safety Programs for the Local.Curtis then sits down with Marc Gallego, Business Manager for UA LU 469.  Marc shares a little personal information about himself as well as history of LU 741 and LU 469.  Marc then talks about past work, current work and what the local is looking to in the future.  For more information about LU 469, https://ualocal469.org/.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Pat O'Hara who's back from the trenches of working at the Battery Plant as well as Robin and Nancy with Mindful Momentum to talk about the Peer Support Program.  Robin and Nancy both share their backgrounds as well as the path to starting the Peer Support program from early discussions to starting with the first Instructor Peer Support Team to the most recent Apprentice Peer Support members.The most recent Mental Health Awareness from MCAA Safety catalog, https://youtu.be/5c1rY9FZVOY?si=ckEZbUWl5oT7aQ9UFitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde does an extended Break Time with Craig Hickson.  Craig gives an update on the Hickson Fixin' Sourdough Starter.  Shares about class and Christmas Break plans.  Then Curtis gives an update on events and classes coming up for the both the Union Hall and Training Center.  Be sure to stop by the Training Center from 9-6 on Tuesday January 9th for a Open House of the Training Center.  Current Peer Support group will be wrapping up on the 8th of January.  If you have a class you would like to take, be sure to reach out to the Training Center and get your name on the list.Merry Christmas from the Fitter Talk Crew!!Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and can be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Pipefitters Local 533 Training Coordinator Chris McGhee to talk about the Service Side of the Training Center.  First Chris shares a little personal background as well as his role as the Coordinator.  Then talks about what he would recommend for a background and what anyone apprentice or Journeyman should consider for getting in on the Service Side of the Industry.  Chris also shares working with High Schools and Community Colleges as well as inviting listeners to the Open House at the Training Center on Tuesday January 9th from 9 am to 6 pm.  For more information about the Training Center, go to https://www.pftc533.com/.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions and for any questions, may be reached at [email protected].

In this weeks episode 10 of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde goes International to talk with Paddy Kavanagh the General Secretary for the Connect Trade Union which joined the United Association in 2015.  Paddy talks about their 40,000 skilled crafts women and men that the Trade Union represents, Density (Market Share) of union labor in Ireland along with some of the challenges.  In addition Paddy Shares a little history about Irelands Independence and the roll the Trade Union played.  As well as having the first woman to start and run the Trade Union.Many in the States I believe don't understand Connect Trade Union and may refer to them as Engineers.  Which was the first craft signed on.  Currently Connect Trade represents 21/25 skilled crafts for labor in Ireland.  In addition Connect Trade Union is a member of the IBEW and Paddy shares the transition to global markets, work and need for skilled craft workers.  Connect Trade Union plans to be in Ann Arbor for the 2024 ITP and bring apprentices to compete in the competition.  For more information about Connect Trade Union go to https://connectunion.ie/.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected]

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde once again sits down with Craig Hickson.  Craig gives us an update on the Sourdough Bread and needing a name.  He also gives an update on status of Codes Class then discuss briefly about our episode topic, So you want to be a Pipefitter.  Craig shares a few things from the Service Side that he feels would be important to consider before signing up to enter the trade.  Curtis then sits down with Peter (Pete) Smith the Assistant Training Coordinator for Pipefitters Local 533 Training Center and overseeing the Weld Program for the Training Center.  Pete with a background in the industrial side of the trade on construction shares some of the piping systems and work for that side.  Pete then shares some of the other piping systems and welding types that someone should prepare to see when on the construction side and looking to work in the various segments of Industrial, Pharmaceutical and HVAC construction.  He then shares his thoughts on what someone should consider went making application for the Pipefitters, Math, Math, more Math, School and making application.Fitter Talk is  a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at [email protected].

In this Bonus Episode on the 2023 Local 533 Health Fair, host Curtis Ohlde sits down for Break Time with Craig Hickson once again to get an update on the Sourdough.  If you have any suggestions for Craig's 3-1/2 year old Sourdough be sure to reach out to us.  Craig shared about his time while attending the Health Fair.  Curtis then interviewed Krisha with Soloxys the Health Care Provider for the Local 533 Health & Welfare Program.  Then Curtis has the opportunity to sit down with Mike a Local 533 member helping with the Building Trades National Screening Program.  Check back for more notes as this page will be updated later in the week.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and can be reached at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with volunteers from the 2022-23 Journeyman HVAC Class to talk about why it was important for them to take not only this class but other continuing education classes.  This episode recording was the first recording for Fitter Talk.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. for questions we can be reached at [email protected]

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Craig Hickson for Break Time.  Craig shares a little about himself in the trade for LU 533 and as a Training Instructor.  Craig also shares why he decided to be part of the Peer Support Program.  If you are a member of LU 533 be sure to check out the Peer Support Page on the local533.com page.  Any questions or suggestions be sure to let us know.  Plan to have additional information available at the Health Fair weekend of the 27th.The episode then transitions to Curtis talking with Nick Bell a member and instructor with UA Local 464 in Omaha, Nebraska.  Nick talks about their local, training and shares a little about himself.  For information about LU 464 go to https://lu464.org/Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C.  If you would like to contact us, you can do so at [email protected].

In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde fly's solo for a quick break time giving updates.  Then sits down with LU 533 Journeyman Eric Seigler "Shiney" to talk about continued education classes for Journeyman and of all classes to take, Pipefitter Safety (OSHA-30).  They also discuss and critique the classes on what can be done better to improve the learning experience.  If you are a member of L.U. 533 and would like to see what classes are available or to sign-up.  Contact the Training Center or look for a list of classes in the Labor Beacon.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and can be reached at [email protected]

In this Episode 4 of Fitter Talk.  Host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Pat O'Hara for Break Time with Pat.  They congratulate Cole Rogers for winning the Welding Competition last year during the International Training Program and Jacob Lee winning the HVAC division at this years ITP.  Pat gave an update on MINK, up coming golf tournament and Clay Shoot.  Pat and Curtis also discussed the Peer Support Program.  Curtis then sits down with Milwaukee Tool Representative Matt Henderson to discuss the transition on jobsites from Hardhats to Helmets which has also been a heavily discussed topic at the last two annual Safety Conferences.  Matt talks about the differences in hard hats and helmets as well as distinguishing between the traditional rock type climbing helmet and the Type 2 helmet which is the new ANSI standard.  In addition Matt talks about the different types of Type 2 helmets, maintenance, servicing and accessories.  milwaukeetool.comhttps://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Safety-Solutions/Personal-Protective-Equipment/Head-Protection/Front-Brim-Safety-Helmet

In this episode of Fitter Talk, Host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Pat O'Hara for Break Time and this discuss current events and wrap up from attending the International Training Program in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Then Curtis sits down with David Miguel a Safety Specialist in Trenching, Shoring, Confined Space, Emergency Retrieval as well a OSHA-30 instructor.  They review not only safety in general but also go over the importance of Safety and the Specific topics he covers that allow hands on training in PFTC 5333 Pipefitter Safety Training Class.If you would like to reach out to David Miguel or have a question or something to add to the Podcast.  Email [email protected] Talk is a Production of Cow Town Production L.L.C.

In today's episode of Fitter Talk, your host Curtis Ohlde sits down for Break Time with Patrick O'Hara to discuss current events.  Then onto the main guests Tresa and Frank Reece of UA Local 50 in Toledo Ohio.  Tresa and Frank share some personal stories as well as being not only part of the UA Family but also having two sons in UA Local 50 as well.  They also talk about topics they both teach at their home local as well as during ITP.  Tresa also talks about her mentoring of apprentices and actively promoting women in the trade.  In addition they discuss the differences of being a combination local vs straight-line local.  For more information about UA Local 50 check out the website link.https://ualocal50.com/

In this Episode 1 of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with two of his mentors Jack Hicklin and Dave Young to Reflect over their careers as Pipefitters and going over the work, the changes, challenges, mentors they had and what it means to them to be a skilled craftsman with L.U. 533 and the United Association.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C.  For questions or if you have a topic to be discussed email [email protected].

Welcome to Fitter Talk.  Join your host Curtis Ohlde a member of L.U. 533 and United Association as he sits down with local members and members from the UA as they share information about their locals, talk with retirees, journeyman, apprentices, contractors and customers.  Topics to go over but not limited to are reflecting over a career as a Union Member, Continued Education, Technology, why to use Union Labor and more.Hope you enjoy this Trailer with three clips of pre-recoded interviews.  Plan to drop a new episode every other week and potential bonus issues in between weeks on Wednesdays.Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C.  For questions or if you have a topic to be discussed email [email protected].