Business Details
Your Trusted Columbus Plumbing & Pipefitting Union Since 1899
Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 189 has served the plumbing and mechanical piping industry in Columbus, Ohio since 1899. Our organization prioritizes apprentice and journeyman training to deliver exceptional craftsmanship while partnering with MCACO Mechanical Contractors to strengthen the regional industry. With over 125 years of experience, we maintain a commitment to excellence through rigorous training programs, industry partnerships, and a focus on advancing the plumbing and piping trades across eleven central Ohio counties. Our unions history reflects a dedication to improving working conditions and fostering professional growth for tradespeople. We provide comprehensive apprenticeship opportunities, specialized courses like semiconductor training, and ongoing skill development for union members.Our team of experienced professionals ensures adherence to industry standards while preparing workers for evolving technical challenges. Through collaborative relationships with contractors and educational institutions, we support workforce development and economic growth in our service area. Our leadership maintains transparent communication with members through regular meetings, newsletters, and accessible administrative support. The unions training center offers state-certified programs, including welding certifications and medical gas installation courses, to enhance career opportunities. We uphold equal opportunity principles and maintain non-discriminatory practices across all our operations and member services.
Services
Apprenticeship Training
Journeyman Certification
Semiconductor Courses
Welding Certification
Medical Gas Installation
Backflow Certification
Orbital Tube Welding
Plastics Fitter Training
Stainless Fitter Classes
Industrial Rigging Certification
Highlights and features
- We offer 125+ years of industry experience and training expertise
- Our partnership with MCACO Mechanical Contractors strengthens local industry standards
- We provide specialized training including semiconductor and medical gas certifications
- Our apprenticeship program maintains rigorous national accreditation standards
- We serve 11 central Ohio counties with localized workforce development programs
What people say
Exceptional apprenticeship training
Strong job placement support
Industry-recognized certifications
Experienced instructors
Valuable networking opportunities
Services
Apprenticeship Training
Our comprehensive apprenticeship program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to develop skilled plumbing and pipefitting professionals. Applicants receive structured education in trade fundamentals, safety protocols, and specialized techniques while earning journeyman certification. The program maintains strict adherence to industry standards through regular curriculum updates and performance evaluations.
Journeyman Certification
We provide advanced certification programs for experienced tradespeople seeking journeyman status. The certification process includes rigorous testing of technical knowledge, practical skills, and code compliance understanding. Our credentials are recognized across central Ohio's mechanical contracting industry as marks of professional excellence.
Semiconductor Courses
These advanced courses prepare pipefitters for high-tech semiconductor manufacturing environments. Training focuses on precision welding techniques, contamination control, and specialized material handling required in cleanroom settings. Graduates gain qualifications for employment in Ohio's growing semiconductor industry sector.
Welding Certification
Our welding certification program covers multiple processes including GMAW and orbital tube welding. Participants demonstrate proficiency in various positions and material thicknesses to meet industry-specific standards. The program includes preparation for AWS certification exams and specialized applications in industrial settings.
Medical Gas Installation
This specialized training covers medical gas system installation and maintenance requirements. Certified instructors teach compliance with NFPA 99 standards, cylinder handling procedures, and testing protocols for healthcare facility gas distribution systems.
People
Zac Charles
President
Zac Charles leads Local Union 189 with a focus on member advocacy and industry advancement. He oversees strategic initiatives to expand training programs and strengthen contractor partnerships while maintaining the union's commitment to excellence in plumbing trades.
Dan McHale
Business Manager
Dan McHale manages daily operations and member services for Local Union 189. With extensive industry experience, he ensures effective implementation of training programs and maintains relationships with mechanical contractors across central Ohio's service area.
Kenneth E Davis
Financial Secretary-Treasurer
Kenneth E Davis oversees financial operations and administrative functions for the union. He maintains fiscal responsibility while supporting member services and ensuring proper resource allocation for training programs and organizational initiatives.
Mark Hunter
Training Coordinator
Mark Hunter coordinates educational programs at the JATC training center. He manages curriculum development and instructor coordination to ensure apprentices receive comprehensive instruction in modern plumbing and pipefitting techniques.
Jacki Lewis
Training Staff
Jacki Lewis supports training operations and student services at the apprenticeship center. She assists with program administration and maintains records to ensure compliance with educational standards and certification requirements.
Questions
How do I apply for apprenticeship training?
Applications are available the first Tuesday of each month at 4560 Journal Street with valid photo ID. Applicants must meet age, education, and residency requirements.
What counties does Local Union 189 serve?
We serve Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Hocking, Licking, Madison, Marion, Perry, Pickaway, Ross, and Union Counties in central Ohio.
What specialized training programs are available?
We offer semiconductor courses, medical gas installation certification, orbital welding training, and industrial rigging certification through our JATC training center.
How can I schedule a weld test?
Call the JATC office by Thursday before scheduled test dates to register. Tests occur monthly at the training center with advance registration required.
What are membership requirements?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, maintain reliable transportation, and pass required aptitude and drug tests.
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