Errol Sisson (left) and Mel Palmer, retired members of Sheet Metal Workers International Association (SMWIA) Local 359, take a break during the installation of a new air conditioning system at St. John’s Indian School, located on the Gila Indian Reservation south of Phoenix, AZ. As part of an industry-wide project, Valley sheet metal apprentices from the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) recently donated time measuring the job site and building fittings, while local Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) members donated the air conditioning units and other material. Retired members of SMWIA Local 359 came in to fit and install the systems, which will allow the school to be converted into a community center. The school dates back to the late 1800s, when it served as living quarters for Jesuit priests.

Publication date: 07/08/2002