Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) Legislative Update
Public Works Career Pre Apprenticeship and Vocational School Training Update
by Erin Gingerella, Massachusetts Pre-Apprenticeship and Vocational School Training Program
The second Pre-Apprenticeship and Vocational School Training Program was held during the week of February 17th, at the New England Laborers’ Training Academy in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. Eight Pre-Apprenticeship Program graduates and eight teachers were accepted to participate. Activities included installing ductile iron water pipe, concrete form construction and placement of concrete, using oxy acetylene torches to cut and burn steel, and sanitary manhole invert construction. Each day started with classroom and job specific safety
instruction by skilled professionals from the Laborers’ Union before moving to the training bays for hands-on activities. The program not
only improved the teacher’s knowledge and understanding of the career opportunities the Laborers’ Union offer, but it also helped the students
move MHA Spring Newsletter submission from Erin Gingerella, Massachusetts Pre-Apprenticeship and Vocational School Training Program
closer to becoming an apprentice. This knowledge was demonstrated in the PowerPoint lessons the teachers shared after the program which can be found on our website www.MAPAVSTP.com
We continue to expand the program to schools looking for opportunities for those who wish to start a fulfilling, productive and lucrative career
directly out of high school. Quotes from participants: “Great training from professionals in amazing facilities.” “I had a phenomenal time. I am excited to share what I learned with my students.
MHA Annual Meeting 2024
The MHA Annual Meeting was held on May 2nd at the Pleasant Valley Country Club in Sutton. The event was well attended with many members on hand for the excellent program and Scholarship and Awards presentations.
New officers elected were:
President – Scott Crisafulli, Milford;
1st Vice President – Roby Whitehouse, Yarmouth;
2nd Vice President – Robert Colson, West Springfield.
Representing Berkshire County – Jamie Boyer, West Stockbridge. President Crisafulli appointed Jennifer Tetreault-Mannarino from HazCommpliance as the new Vendor Director to replace the three-year term of Jason Page from ATG.
Appointed in June to fill Director vacancies representing NBM – James McGonagle, Newton; and Tri-County – Allison McMordie, Westfield.
Awards were presented to the following recipients: The Grainger Award to Sean Divoll, Worcester Water and Sewer; The John Kiley Award to Catherine Schoenenberger of Stay Safe Traffic Products; and the Recognition Award to Curt Wilton, West Stockbridge DPW Director, and Jason Page of Advantage Truck Group (ATG).