IBEW Retiree Gives Back to Apprentices
When IBEW Local 494 retiree Art McGlothlin got involved with the Tool Grant Awards program in 1999, he had no idea that the initiative would grow into what it is today.
McGlothlin, a member of Local 494 for 23 years, knew that being a new apprentice was a tough time with the cost of tools for the job as well as the time spent learning a new trade, he wanted to be able to help them in some way. McGlothlin learned that the Excelsior Masonic Lodge, where he is a member, had started a program to give money to first year apprentices. He was given the responsibility of getting the union trades involved, and in the first year the program was able to fund 14 grants to local union electrical apprentices.
Since then, the program has grown substantially. The Excelsior Masonic Lodge has now given over $20,000 for the Tool Grant Awards and in 2007, 27 grants in the amount of $100 each were given to outstanding apprentices in each union trade.
Apprentices are not directed to spend the money from their grants in any certain way, they are simply to use the money for whatever expenses they feel it best to put them too. While some need the money to pay for the tools of their trade, others need the money to catch up household costs.
In order to receive a grant, an apprentice must be in their first year, and they must be chosen by their training director. Directors are instructed to choose an outstanding apprentice someone who exemplifies the standards of quality workmanship, scholastic achievement and commitment. The chosen candidate must also be present at the awards banquet in order to receive their award.
The program has gained the support of all Southeastern Wisconsin union trades, and has been restructured into The Skilled Trades Joint Apprenticeship Tool Grant Association, with committee members from each union trade apprenticeship program. The Milwaukee Building Construction Trades Council funds the awards dinner each year in December.
We have had overwhelming support from all of the union trades and related organizations, noted McGlothlin, who now serves as the organization chairman. The program continues to grow each year, and we are able to help more and more apprentices.
Additionally, the organization puts out a popular Tool Grant Awards Yearbook to raise money during the year. McGlothlin's grandson, William will be donating the printing of the yearbook through his company, Point Promotions.
The program is currently seeking status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity to continue its growth, allowing more funding for awards to help local union apprentices. If you would like more information on the Tool Grant Award program, please contact your apprenticeship training director, or contact Art McGlothlin at (414) 483-9788.
Power of One Newsletters
