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A Respected Union Join something bigger than yourself. Becoming a union member is one of the most effective ways to advance your career and secure your future. Boilermakers Local 549—based in Pittsburg, CA—represents highly skilled craftsmen in the industrial construction industry. Through our nationally recognized apprenticeship program, we take pride in training and developing the next generation of top-tier talent.
Local 549 is dedicated to advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions. Our members are dispatched to a wide range of high-demand job sites, including refineries, shipyards, fabrication shops, power plants, and even nuclear facilities. These workplaces require precision, professionalism, and mastery of complex tasks—such as high-pressure welding, heavy rigging, and advanced mechanical work.
If you have a strong work ethic, mechanical aptitude, welding experience, or a talent for creative problem-solving, we encourage you to take the next step. Contact us today to learn how you can become part of the Boilermaker Brotherhood.
More Than Just a Job At Boilermakers Local 549, we know that skilled tradespeople are the backbone of our communities and the driving force behind the industries that keep our world moving. No matter your background, experience, or interests, a career in the trades offers a meaningful way to contribute, grow, and take pride in your work.
This is more than just a job—it’s a lifelong career built on craftsmanship, teamwork, and opportunity. When you join the Boilermakers, you gain the skills, training, and support needed to build a secure and rewarding future doing work that truly matters.
Equal Opportunity Commitment The Boilermakers National Apprenticeship Program and the Western States Joint Apprenticeship Program are fully committed to providing equal opportunity for all applicants and apprentices.
We strictly prohibit discrimination based on:
Race Color Religion National origin Sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation) Age Genetic information Disability
We also take affirmative action to ensure fairness and equal access in every aspect of our apprenticeship programs. This commitment aligns with the requirements of Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 30.
Our goal is to foster a respectful, inclusive environment where every individual has the opportunity to succeed.
Boilermaker Apprenticeship Sign-Ups Boilermakers Local 549 accepts apprenticeship applications on the second Friday of every month. Applicants must present valid photo identification at the time of sign-up. A birth certificate and high school diploma (or equivalent) will be required during the application process.
Program Overview The Boilermaker Apprenticeship Program is a comprehensive, four-year training experience that combines classroom instruction with hands-on field training.
Training Components:
More than 800 hours of classroom instruction 6,000 hours of on-the-job training Classes are held at the Benicia, CA training facility Instruction is typically delivered in two-week sessions, twice per year (four total weeks per year) The apprenticeship itself is offered at no cost, aside from the following standard fees:
$250 apprenticeship fee (after initiation into the apprenticeship) $250 union initiation fee Union dues of approximately $64/month (2025 rates)
Minimum Requirements: Applicants must meet the following criteria:
18 years of age or older High school diploma or equivalent Valid driver’s license or photo ID Reliable transportation and willingness to travel Ability to complete employer I-9 verification Ability to pass union and employer drug screening Physically capable of performing the required work
For additional information about the apprenticeship program or application process, contact the Apprenticeship Office.
Helper Program – A Pathway to Apprenticeship Boilermakers Local 549 offers an optional entry point into the trade through the Helper Program, designed to introduce new workers to the industry and provide valuable hands-on experience. Helpers receive 500–1,500 hours of on-the-job training, which offers a significant competitive advantage when applying for the Apprenticeship Program.
Program Highlights: Starting wage: $33.65 per hour After 2,000 on-the-job hours, Helpers become eligible for medical benefits Applicants must be prepared to take a drug test and complete required safety classes Upon meeting initial requirements, individuals will be listed as a Helper and become eligible for dispatch to job sites Boilermakers Local 549 also offers a Safety Attendant Program, which shares similar entry requirements and starting wage as the Helper Program. However, please note that the Safety Attendant path does not provide direct entry into the Apprenticeship Program.
For more information or to request an application, please contact:
Che Rocchild – Apprenticeship Coordinator Phone: (925) 464-1612 Email: training@bmlocal549.org
Helmets to Hardhats Boilermakers Local 549 proudly supports our nation’s Veterans through the Helmets to Hardhats program, a trusted pathway that helps service members successfully transition from military life into skilled careers within the construction trades.
Through this partnership, we offer Veterans:
Hands-on training and mentorship Direct access to industry-leading opportunities Guidance in navigating the application and dispatch process Soft skills development to support long-term success in the field
Our goal is to provide a smooth transition into a rewarding, respected career while honoring the dedication and service of our Veterans.
Boilermakers Local 549 was established on October 28, 1983, following the merger of Local 749 (Stockton) and Local 513 (Richmond). Since then, we’ve proudly represented a united brotherhood of skilled industrial craftsmen.
As part of an international union, our members receive standardized training that’s consistent from coast to coast—ensuring that every Boilermaker is held to the same high standards, no matter where they work. Our nationwide dispatch system allows members to seek work opportunities across the United States, providing flexibility and broad access to jobs throughout the industry.
LODGE OFFICERS / BUSINESS & TRAINING REPRESENTATIVES
President
David Hoogendoorn
Business Agent Rennae Ross
Vice-President
Paul Fields
Apprenticeship Coordinator Che Rocchild
Business Manager/ Secretary Treasurer
Randy Thomas
Training Shop Instructor Steve Brown
Inspector
Brian McBride
Training Instructor Andrew Hayes
Recording Secretary
Mayra Garcia-Quintero
Training Instructor
Felicia Templeton
Trustee Chairman
Johnny Blackmon
Office Manager-Local
Gloria Navarro
Business Agent
Osvaldo Troche Jr.
Office Manager-Apprenticeship
Rosaura Segura-Sandoval
Business Agent Dominic Lucero
Dues Clerk
Veronica Rivera
Contact Us
Contact BoilermakersLocal 549, a union based in Pittsburg, CA. We’re proud to offer an exceptional boilermaker apprenticeship program.
