Local Union 2 in Kansas City participated in a new recruitment event. Business Manager, Greg Chastain approached the Local 2 Women’s Committee for ideas of how Local 2 could reach a more diverse group in recruitment. The Women’s Committee immediate thought of Pride month. Every June, Kansas City hosts a Pride parade and celebration. This is where they felt they could reach every gender, age group, and demographic. Local 2 supported the Women’s Committees suggestion by reserving two booths at the event.
The Women’s Committee set up monitors with slideshows showing various scopes of the sheet metal and the slides also highlighted beautiful projects that have been made a staple of their city skyline. The booth showcased multiple duct fittings and school projects on the tables. They also had recruitment materials including pamphlets about the apprenticeship and benefits. The number one attraction at the booth was the virtual welder. All age groups and experience levels were able to show their welding abilities. It was a great attention grabber at the event.
The Women’s Committee and Local 2 volunteers handed out swag and union information to over 2,500 people. Several teachers and school counselors visited the booth. They voiced that they would like to share information about apprenticeship programs and trades to their students as another option, instead of the traditional college path. Since June, Local 2 has had and uptake in applications stemming from this event. Many applicants have already passed their tests and are awaiting placement.