News

Much has changed.

Posted July 28, 2025

Brothers and Sisters,

I’m really proud to be a part of District Council 16. The way we experience Union Membership including our training for Journeymen and Apprentices has changed a lot since I started in the mid-’90s. Back then, as an apprentice, we were crammed into small classrooms with limited shop space. But those days are behind us. Today, our training facilities are top-notch. We have advanced equipment and highly skilled instructors who are dedicated to helping us succeed.

Safety on the job site has also improved significantly. In the ’90s, if we were on a lift or needed fall protection, we used leather belts tied to ropes. Now, we have modern harnesses that are designed to protect us if we fall.

The glazing industry has also seen amazing innovations. In the past, we used to handle aluminum extrusions and installed clips on-site. Now, almost everything is custom-made in the shop with computers controlled saws.

The opportunities apprentices have today are far greater than what many of us had in the ’80s and ’90s. The skills they are learning are preparing them for a bright future in our trade.

I’m proud to be a glazier. I’m grateful for the skills I’ve gained, the trade I’ve mastered, and the strong bonds we share as a Union family!

Safe Travels 

John Tweedt

Business Representative 

DC16/LU767

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