David Wilt welds during classes at the Steamfitters new facility in Jackson Township

The Steamfitters Union held an open house Tuesday for welders at its new training center in Jackson Township, and while the event drew hundreds of applicants, the union says it still needs more applicants to train.

The union is looking for people with some welding experience to join its five-year apprenticeships to learn the skills required to become a fully qualified welder.

Welding jobs pay well and the training comes at no cost to the trainee. Apprentices make $18 an hour with health coverage. After the apprenticeship, welders make around $40 an hour, according to Kenneth Broadbent, the union's business manager.

“We train people at no cost to them for middle-class jobs,” Broadbent said.

The application time is in September, and anyone who wants more information about welding apprenticeships or future open houses can visit the Steamfitters website at www.ua449com or call at 412-481-0333.

The next open house will be later this month for heating and air conditioner technician apprenticeships.

It will be held at the union's training center in Harmony.

A full report will appear in the Butler Eagle.