CWI Corner: Forged Through Community

Robert “Bob” Wisehart had just graduated from the local community college when an ironworker introduced him to the apprenticeship program he now directs.

Wisehart’s acceptance into Iron Workers Local Union 272’s apprenticeship program in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., has shaped his life immensely and has reinforced what everyone who knows him can agree on: community and quality are at the heart of everything he does. A hard worker, he takes advantage of every opportunity presented, which is why, after his acceptance into the apprenticeship program, he set his sights on earning a welding certification, which he achieved in 1989. He then worked his way up from a welder to a weld foreman.

However, he has always had a passion for teaching. This passion led him to start teaching in the apprenticeship program nearly ten years after earning certification. He continued to grow in his role and responsibilities, and 15 years later, he became the apprentice director, a role he’s held since.

“One of the important things for an apprentice director is to be a CWI. It really just ups the game. As a CWI, I can certify the students and help them complete their training as welders,” Wisehart said.

He recalls preparing to become a CWI with support from peers and the apprenticeship program, while teaching journeymen and apprentices in the program. The same support he can now provide to his students working toward their certifications.

Mentorship

Wisehart credits those who came before him in the union with helping shape the ironworker and instructor he is today.

His mentor was an iconic member of the local union who served as an advisor and teacher to everyone who came through the doors. It was his encouragement that shaped Wisehart’s trajectory. He was notorious for being tough on apprentices who passed through the program while simultaneously pushing them to put their best foot forward, which helped mold Wisehart into the ironworker he is today.

Wisehart has similar policies in his own teaching. He spoke of a welder in desperate need of renewing his certification. He brought the welder into the weld shop and administered a test, working with him to ensure that the welder had all the resources and support necessary to pass.

“I have a responsibility to the union and the students to turn out quality welders,” he shared.

For Wisehart, it is more than just a certificate. It’s a pathway to making a living and having a career.

Beyond the Classroom

Wisehart’s philosophy carries over beyond the classroom. He recalls a large project in Miami where a team of 50 welders was working with him to expand and build an airport terminal. While he believes in the necessity of certifications, he wants to make sure that welders have the skill to accompany the knowledge.

He has all welders show him their work, making sure they know how to fit up and weld. He gives pointers as needed, guiding and imparting knowledge to both novice and seasoned welders.

Because of this, he does not believe in failing inspections. He is big on quality control: keeping an eye on the weld, giving advice, having welders grind out any issues, making sure procedures are right, and ensuring the process is flawless before another inspector makes the final call.

Wisehart wants to ensure that his hallmark quality is present, a trait he held before he became a CWI.

Community

Outside of the weld shop, Wisehart, a fifth-generation South Floridian, is an active member of his community. From church handrails to art displays, community members and institutions know they can rely on Wisehart and the union for any of their technical needs. He is also involved with the Freemasons, where his community work goes beyond welding. “Whatever anybody needs, we’re going to help them out,” he reaffirmed.

Still, Wisehart’s passion for education bleeds through. He regularly attends local high school events and career fairs, emphasizing the future life in the trades could provide for young minds.

He advises all students to consider any trade, not just welding, though he is favorable toward it. He emphasizes the need for tradespeople in all fields and highlights the benefits the career can offer those interested, noting that completing an apprenticeship program similar to the one he directs puts students a handful of courses away from an associate’s degree.

“My advice to up-and-coming students is that they can always get a head start in high school,” he said.

He believes that they can always go back to school, but having a necessary foundation is vital.
 

RACHEL BHEECHAM (rbheecham@aws.org) is editor for Inspection Trends.