Member Spotlight
Sheet Metal Workers Local 18: They Not Only Build, They Create
Sheet Metal Workers Local 18 was formed on October 1, 1982, after the amalgamation of seven locals across the state to cut costs while creating efficiencies. Currently, Local 18 serves 4,700 members statewide who work in the commercial, manufacturing, industrial and residential industries.
Since July of 2008, Pat Landgraf has led the Sheet Metal Workers as its Business Manager. In early 2009, based on the union's success over the years, Landgraf oversaw the purchase of a new building to fit Local 18's growing needs. Considering the industry undergoes multiple changes within short time periods, new headquarters to grow with the times was vital to the union's continued success.
"Representing people was something that always interested me," said Landgraf. "I always go into any decision I make, especially in regards to the new building, with the mindset of whether or not I think it's a good thing for me as a union member. I have lived by the mantra of leaving any position I enter a little better than where I found it — something I heard from Ed Carlough, a former General President of our International."
State-Wide Knowledge and Decision Making
When dealing with such a large and spread-out member base, Landgraf isn't interested in micromanaging his business agents. He believes each of them has the best understanding of the area they represent, and he has confidence they will make the right decisions for all members. Additionally, he feels his role is to look to the future and seek out ideas or goals that will benefit his workers.
"I have been lucky to have surrounded myself with honest, hard-working people to make sure we make the right decisions," said Landgraf. "I take pride in the communication I have throughout the state with my agents, I respect their day to day efforts, and I do my best to continually push the union forward with their help."
One of the biggest decisions Landgraf feels worked in everyone's favor was the right to solicit for work statewide as long as the contractors have their principal office within the jurisdiction of the local union. This ruling went into effect in March 2010, and he feels it's allowed many members to continue working based on the needs of specific areas across the state.
Another forward-thinking decision that opened doors and gave his members increased work opportunities was the push to become certified as Environmental Service Technicians (EST).
"ESTs are a hot commodity as of late, and there are a lot of educational opportunities for our members who move in that direction," explained Landgraf. "Building Information Modeling and CAD training go hand in hand for sheet metal workers who want to pursue that work. It's just one of the many ways we try to make our members more employable and keep them working."
Wide Range of Skills
Many people might not be aware of the scope of work a Sheet Metal Worker performs, and they might be interested to know it goes well beyond duct work. The range of work includes: HVAC systems, architectural sheet metal, structural steel, environmental service, kitchen equipment, and ship and train building. Interestingly enough, one of their more high-profile projects is the "wings" of the Calatrava addition at the Milwaukee Art Museum.
"We have many talents that we take great pride in," said Landgraf. "We work hard to upgrade our skills to ensure the best quality product is produced."
"I will always work hard to promote our efforts and to encourage the younger generation to try their hand at all facets of our industry," he added. "From when I became an apprentice in 1980 to becoming the Business Manager in 2008, I've always been proud of our success and resilience. We are a unique trade and will always do what needs to be done to succeed."
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