Partnership with Lewis County Schools
The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 53 is expanding opportunities for young people in West Virginia by partnering with Lewis County Schools on a repainting project at Lewis County High School. The initiative begins with improvements to the school’s locker rooms and highlights the union’s commitment to supporting local education and workforce development.
Leadership Support
To strengthen this partnership, DC 53 Business Manager-Secretary Treasurer Brian Stanley and IUPAT General Vice President (Eastern Region) Paul Canning joined representatives from the Finishing Trades Institute (FTI) and Lewis County Schools to announce a new pre-apprenticeship pathway for students.
Launching a Pre-Apprenticeship Exploration Class
Beginning in January 2026, Lewis County High School juniors will have the opportunity to enroll in a Pre-Apprenticeship Exploration Class, which will run through May 2026.
Hands-On Experience in Five Trades
The program is designed to introduce students to all five trades offered at the IUPAT training center, giving them valuable hands-on experience and early exposure to union apprenticeship programs. By starting in high school, participants gain a head start on building a rewarding career in the finishing trades.
Preparing the Next Generation of Skilled Workers
This initiative reflects IUPAT DC 53’s ongoing mission: connecting education with opportunity and preparing the next generation of skilled workers in West Virginia.
Building Careers Through Education
By bringing apprenticeship training into the classroom, IUPAT DC 53 is helping students build a strong foundation for stable, well-paying careers in the finishing trades.
