Dave Hawkins, the Training Director at IUOE Local Union 94 in New York City, has spent thirty years in the building maintenance field. Over this time, he has witnessed significant changes, including the introduction of new technologies like Interplay Learning, which have transformed the educational journeys of union members striving to become licensed stationary engineers.
Where Excellence Meets Engineering
For the last thirty years, I’ve maintained buildings in one capacity or another and am a proud member of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 94. Our union, with a rich history spanning over a century and boasting 6,500 members, is dedicated to training and developing our members to become licensed stationary engineers.
Stationary engineers are the backbone of commercial buildings and ensure they run safely and efficiently by managing all interior mechanics. They know buildings like the back of their hand, are the fire department’s first line of defense, and handle everything from cooling and plumbing to electrical and air conditioning systems. Our work spans hotels, public schools, and a significant portion of the commercial sector in New York City, carrying immense responsibility.
With so much riding on our essential roles, one of our union’s missions is to equip our members with quality training so they are prepared with the skills and knowledge necessary to pass their NYC Refrigeration License (Q-01/Q-99) and EPA 608 Universal Certification, both mandatory requirements to become employed as a stationary engineer.
The Path to Licensure: A 20-Week Journey with Interplay Learning
Obtaining a stationary engineer license is a pivotal milestone in our members’ careers. Local 94 offers a comprehensive 20-week program comprising 200 hours of intensive training, which counts towards their practical experience. This program prepares our members for their EPA 608 Universal Certification and the licensing exam, including written and practical components.
When I saw what Interplay could do, I was blown away. Compared to other training programs that offered less and cost much more, Interplay was a cut above the rest. It was clear that we needed to use it to give our members the best shot at passing their exams.
Interplay Learning is now central to our 20-week program, offering supplementary resources in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, safety, and facilities maintenance to enhance our curriculum. Through Interplay, 100 members can access interactive simulations, engaging videos, step-by-step instructions, and mobile-friendly learning materials. These resources help members deepen their understanding of complex concepts and gain practical experience in a safe, virtual environment. Interplay is also used as a refresher for those retaking or renewing their license.
The training resonates particularly well with the younger generation of union members, who prefer visual learning methods. While we still use textbooks and other traditional materials, many buildings, especially those in New York City public schools, lack refrigeration equipment. In these cases, our members rely on detailed pictures and diagrams we provide. Interplay’s graphic approach gives members exposure and virtual access to equipment they don’t have, providing hands-on troubleshooting on refrigeration equipment in “real-world” scenarios. This deeply enriches our traditional learning materials with visuals, significantly enhancing engagement, retention, and enjoyment in the learning process.
Plus, having training courses available on tablets is critical for learning during downtime. Members can learn while they’re commuting or in the lunchroom on break.
Interplay Learning in Exam Preparation
One key benefit of Interplay is its ability to prepare our members for the practical part of the licensing exam, proctored by the fire department. Interplay’s interactive simulations help simulate real-world scenarios, allowing members to safely practice essential tasks and procedures they may encounter on the job. This hands-on experience builds confidence and competence, leading to higher success rates on the exam.
Additionally, Interplay helps members prepare for the EPA 608 Universal Certification, another mandatory component of getting licensed. The catalog includes comprehensive information for all four sections, allowing members to log in, watch videos, and take practice tests until they feel ready for the exam. The bottom line is that Interplay greatly helps our members pass both the written and practical exams.
Seeing the Results: Higher Pass Rates and Motivated Members
The impact of Interplay on our program’s first few cohorts has been outstanding. The program’s flexibility allows members to train on their own time and at their own pace, accommodating busy schedules and empowering them to balance training with other responsibilities. Members who actively engage with Interplay consistently demonstrate a deeper understanding of the material, and we’ve seen a significant increase in pass rates for the licensing exam.
Interplay’s point system also allows us to track member progress, identify struggling members who need extra support, and recognize our superstars.
Obtaining a license is a crucial stepping stone for our members, significantly improving their life circumstances. It qualifies them for well-paying startup engineering roles within their current workplaces, often advancing from Helper and Mechanic positions. With a license, members receive a pay grade increase, directly enhancing their retirement and annuity funds. This increased pay means better contributions to their future, allowing licensed engineers to earn substantial salaries without working around the clock. Unlike helpers, who might need to be constantly on-site to earn a similar income, licensed engineers enjoy a greater work-life balance.
Our engineers take immense pride in their work, often referring to their buildings as their second homes due to the time and dedication they invest. For them, it’s more than just a job—it’s a lifelong career.
Hugo’s Story: From School Cleaner to Fireman
Despite his demanding schedule as a school cleaner, Hugo consistently dedicated himself to learning. His hard work and determination paid off when he passed the licensing exam, demonstrating his commitment to his goals. Obtaining his license has transformed Hugo’s life. He now works as a Fireman in the NYC school system, a role that not only offers greater responsibilities but also significantly higher pay and opportunities for overtime compared to his previous job.
This license has unlocked new career paths with enhanced earning potential, allowing Hugo to take on more significant challenges and secure a brighter future for himself and his family.
Through hard work, dedication, and the support of resources like Interplay, Hugo’s story exemplifies how obtaining a professional license can be a life-changing achievement. It has paved the way for personal and professional growth, ensuring financial stability and success for years to come.
Looking ahead
Interplay Learning has significantly enhanced our training program at IUOE Local Union 94. By offering accessible and innovative learning resources, we’ve seen higher pass rates and more motivated learners. As we look ahead, my ultimate goal is to get more subscriptions and expand our training program to more members. With the success we’ve seen from our initial Interplay cohorts, there’s a growing demand among our union members for access to Interplay.
Getting licensed with Local 94 boosts earning potential and offers stability, respect, and a fulfilling career path. It’s about more than just making a living; it’s about building a secure future and being a crucial part of maintaining New York City’s heartbeat.
