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GLAZIERS & GLASS WORKERS

Glaziers and glass workers are skilled tradespeople who specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of glass in various structures, including commercial buildings, residential homes, storefronts, and more. Their expertise in working with glass materials plays a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetics, functionality, and safety of buildings. Becoming a proficient glazier or glass worker often involves completing a comprehensive apprenticeship program that typically spans 3 to 4 years with a minumum of 144 hours of training each year. During this apprenticeship, individuals receive hands-on training and instruction in glass cutting, fitting, installation techniques, safety procedures, blueprint reading, and more. A key feature of these apprenticeship programs is the structured training curriculum that gradually builds skills and knowledge over the course of the program, with apprentices receiving wage increases at regular intervals to reflect their growing proficiency.

In their day-to-day work, glaziers and glass workers use a variety of specialized tools and equipment to handle glass materials safely and effectively. Common tools in their toolkit include glass cutters, suction cups, glazing knives, putty, sealants, measuring tools, glazing hammers, and safety gear such as gloves and goggles. They are skilled in cutting, shaping, and installing glass panels, windows, doors, and other glass components according to specific project requirements. Additionally, glaziers and glass workers are well-versed in various types of glass products, including tempered glass, laminated glass, insulated glass units, and decorative glass. They ensure that glass installations meet building codes, safety standards, and aesthetic expectations, providing clients with durable, functional, and visually appealing glass solutions.

By completing an apprenticeship program and honing their skills in working with glass materials, glaziers and glass workers contribute to the successful completion of construction projects, adding value and sophistication to the built environment with their craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Terence Wylie

Glaziers Local Union 930

Colorado

Terence Wylie, a dedicated Glazier and union leader who brings a wealth of experience and passion to the construction trade. With a background that includes concrete work and a tenure of almost 8 years as a glazier with local 930. Terence is a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the industry. Terence has valuable advice to newcomers, he dispels common misconceptions about unions and emphasizes the strong sense of camaraderie and support within the trade. Looking ahead, Terence envisions a future with higher wages, increased member engagement, and a more active community presence for his local union. As a devoted parent and grandparent, he takes pride in sharing his craft with his grandchildren, inspiring them with his work in building storefronts, curtain walls, and more. Terence's dedication, leadership, and commitment to the construction industry exemplify his vision for a thriving future for the trade and the union, making him a respected figure in the field. Terence was nominated and elected as the business agent for his local in May of 2024.

Jeremiah Fliss

Glaziers Local Union 1075

Iowa

Transitioning from a background of servicing loans at a bank and warehouse work to embarking on a career as a glazier through the union, Jeremiah has amassed many years of rich experience in the field. Exploring the intricate world of glasswork, Jeremiah found it to be an engaging, challenging and rewarding. Encouraging others to consider unions for their remarkable benefits and opportunities, Jeremiah particularly appreciates the varied and impactful nature of glazing work. Jeremiah has been actively involved in his local union as a financial secretary, trustee, and part-time instructor, where he taught apprentice and journeyperson classes. His vision for the future aligns with the ongoing union renaissance and technological advancements shaping the trade landscape. Having stumbled into the trades unexpectedly after seeking a change from an unfulfilling job post-college, the union has been a transformative force in his life, providing fulfilling work and opportunities for personal and professional growth over eight years. Jeremiah is now a full time training coordinator with IUPAT Disctrict Council 81.

Joe Bries

Glaziers Local Union 581

Illinois

Joe Bries, an apprentice glazier, during National Apprenticeship Week. Joe's inspiring journey from being an automotive technician for 15 years to transitioning into the glazing trade as an apprentice showcases the transformative impact of apprenticeship programs. Joe's decision to switch careers after 15 years as an automotive technician demonstrates the power of embracing new opportunities at any stage of life. By becoming an apprentice glazier, Joe not only embarked on a fulfilling career path but also highlighted the numerous possibilities that apprenticeships offer. Apprenticeship programs provide individuals with hands-on training and valuable real-world experience, allowing them to acquire the skills needed for a successful career in various trades. Joe's story serves as a reminder that it's never too late to pursue a new passion and attain professional growth. This is the perfect occasion to recognize the achievements of apprentices like Joe and celebrate their dedication to learning and personal development. It also presents an opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of apprenticeships, such as job security, higher earning potential, and the ability to gain practical skills while earning a wage.

ELITE Glass & Metal With Glaziers Local 1075 (Des Moines, Iowa)

Des Moines, Iowa – In an industry where precision and creativity meet, Nate Burgod, Operations Manager at Elite Glass and Metal, highlights the commitment to excellence at this leading glazing contractor in the Des Moines Metro area which was established in 2014.

Nate emphasizes the company's focus on a workplace culture that values both high-quality glazing systems and the professional growth of its team members. “We aim to be the best glazing company to hire and work for,” he asserts, reflecting an ethos of nurturing talent and providing career advancement opportunities. He adds, “With multiple managers, all having diverse experience, and the best of the best of union glaziers, we have tackled all sizes of projects. Our passion for the industry goes far beyond our years in business and far beyond just glass and glazing. It is our hope to develop people to be the best they can be so they can provide for themselves and their families.”

A key strength lies in the dedicated workforce, including employees that have been with them since the start. Nate stresses the importance of not just hiring skilled professionals but also developing future leaders, supported by a collaborative approach that drives success. Regular training is critical to the company's framework, promoting essential skills and a culture of lifelong learning. "Training can never stop for individuals," he emphasizes, ensuring that employee development meets client expectations.

Safety is fundamental, with each employee responsible for their own safety and that of others. “No one person is in charge of safety, but each person is responsible for themselves and those around them,” Nate explains, promoting accountability in maintaining a safe work environment.

Strong relationships with respected organizations enhance service offerings and reputation. Collaborations with the local union and trade associations provide valuable training and networking opportunities, fostering employee development and a sense of community within the industry. Beyond its business accomplishments, Elite Glass and Metal is committed to community development, participating in initiatives that nurture the next generation of talent.

Nate concludes that the company’s dedication to quality, safety, and employee growth illustrates its focus on building a sustainable future for its workforce and the wider community.

Element 13 Facades With Glaziers Local 930 Out (Denver, Colorado)

Get to know Element13. Element13 is a signatory employer with Glaziers Local 930. The owners of Element13 Facades, Jason Nimmo and Brad Holt, started the company to be different, to be a shining star in the construction industry. They recently explained to us a little more about themselves and we thought it would be an important message to share. "Element13 Facades may be “new” from a legal, federal, state, and financial perspective, but we are “aged” when it comes to what we do and why we do it! E13's staff and field employees are what make Element13 Facades great. The relationships that we create internally as well as externally play a huge role in what makes Element13 Facades great. Our people are the reason why we as business owners get out of bed. We truly appreciate all that our people do for our group. Element 13 strives to provide innovative glazing solutions, a strict budget, quality and schedule compliance and adhere to the measures of a safe job site and workplace."

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