John Aguilera – UA Local 486 Plumbers and Steamfitters Apprentice - Success Story - Workforce Development and Adult Learning

“Beating the odds” is what John Aguilera would tell you about his terrific career. “So many guys don’t have any idea how to get a career started. I am lucky. I’ve got a great family. My Dad helped me find my passion for working with classic cars, motorcycles, and Mustangs, so it wasn’t a stretch for me to discover that the Plumbers & Steamfitters apprentice program was just the kind of work I wanted to do right out of high school.” 

I definitely wasn’t interested in college. With this training, I am making serious money already and get to do a lot of fun things—such as ride my motorcycle and cruise in my Mustang.”

What I like best about the Apprenticeship Program is that I’m learning from very experienced people. Even though I am working on steamfitting and welding right now, I have my eye on learning the CAD Drawing and Systems Design side of the business. At the school, I will be able to do that. I can learn whatever I WANT to learn and they will support that. They are all mentors and it is a group effort to help me succeed. Not bad for a young kid from Harford County.”

John’s advice to other young people interested in the trades? “You will make really good money in this field. It’s hard work, school is intense but SO worth it. My family is happy. I am happy.”

The UA Local 486 Plumbers & Steamfitters Apprenticeship is a five-year program, and the training is free through a scholarship. Applications for the 2021-2022 school year are being accepted now at www.getpiping.com.