In each issue of Working Pressure, we ask 10 questions to a training coordinator or instructor of an ASSE-approved training provider. Some questions are work related, some are personal, and others are just for fun. We learn our trade through local colleagues, mentors, and instructors, but what can we learn from others across the country?
In this issue, we’ll get to know Kevin Convy, Training Director at Sprinkler Fitters Local 268.
If you’d like us to ask 10 questions to your ASSE-approved training coordinator or instructor, send us a note telling us why at editor@workingpressuremag.com.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AFFILIATED WITH YOUR TRAINING CENTER/SCHOOL?
I have been affiliated with our training center for more than 20 years now. Our current training center opened in 2005 and the training director at the time, Ken Schneider, asked me to be a part-time instructor that same year. I started out proctoring backflow classes, which years later led to instructing the backflow classes. I started as the full-time day school apprentice instructor on Jan. 1, 2020. I really enjoyed the opportunity to get to know all the apprentices and help them understand the ins and outs of our industry. When I started as training director on March 1, 2022, I never imagined I’d be so busy, but I do enjoy it!
WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND AS IT RELATES TO YOUR OCCUPATION?
I am a second-generation sprinkler fitter. My uncle, Jack Convy, was a member of Local 268 and started his own company in 1975. My father, Dennis Convy, worked for my uncle’s company and was a member of Local 669. I started work for my uncle’s company as a fabricator after I graduated from high school in 1995. I was accepted in the Local 268 apprenticeship in November 1997.
HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN ASSE CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS?
As an apprentice, the local licensing in our area had just started and we were always taught the importance of obtaining and maintaining licenses and certifications throughout our careers because of the local and state licensing. We do have state licensing for backflow testing, but we only have local licensing in St. Louis city and St. Louis County for underground and overhead piping installations.
WHAT ASSE CERTIFICATIONS ARE YOU CURRENTLY OFFERING?
We offer ASSE 5000 cross-connection control certification and ASSE 15010 inspection, testing and maintenance for water-based fire protection systems certification.
WHY IS THE ASSE 15010 CERTIFICATION IMPORTANT TO YOUR SCHOOL?
ASSE 15010 certification is important to our school because we have territory in Illinois, and since Jan. 1, 2024 the state of Illinois has required the licensing of fire sprinkler inspectors. ASSE 15010 is listed among one of the requirements to become an inspector in Illinois. Maintaining the ASSE 15010 certification allows an Illinois inspector to not have to attend any other continuing education classes to maintain their inspector license.
HOW DO YOU GET STUDENTS INTERESTED IN THE CLASSES YOU ARE OFFERING?
We preach the importance of licenses and certifications to the apprentices from day one. When they become eligible for the licenses and certifications, we work with them and help prepare them in the classes leading up to their exams.
WHAT CAREER ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF?
Don’t be afraid to venture outside of your comfort zone and never stop learning.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE?
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” — Wayne Gretzky
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON AND WHY?
Spring has always been my favorite season. My birthday is in April, and I am always glad to see the days get longer and warm weather return. I am also always happy to see the baseball season start; the Cardinals have had a few bad years lately, but they will be back!
IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD IT BE?
Hawaii. I haven’t made it there on vacation yet, but one of these years I will!
