Local 26 Educational Development Trust

Our History

Greater Western Washington Pipe Trades is a United Association, Local 26 apprenticeship. In 2002, Local 631 and Local 265 merged with Local 82 to form Local 26.  For many years the apprenticeships remained separate under the same local union.  In 2019, Northwest Washington, Southwest Washington, and West Sound Pipe Trades became Greater Western Washington Pipe Trades.  Through the apprenticeship, we strive to produce the best journeymen in the industry.  With this newfound identity, we hope to bridge the gap between geographical locations and build our union stronger than ever.

Greater Western Washington is made possible thanks to its partnership with the Mechanical Contractors Association. The MCA of Western Washington works closely with our contractors to ensure the best representation and highest quality of education are provided. They are an integral asset to Local 26’s success.

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Safety Standards

Greater Western Washington Pipe Trades offers a variety of safety courses that accommodate an ever-changing industry.  From OSHA to Refinery Safety, our members will be prepared; no matter the job site.

Equal Work, Equal Pay

Greater Western Washington Pipe Trades is proud to support and push for change throughout the labor landscape. This is a very serious issue that impacts workers worldwide. We address this issue head on, and rally the support and resources needed to make change a reality. If you would like to find out more information about this issue, as well as others, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Labor- Management Partnership

Greater Western Washington is Possible thanks to its partnership with the Mechanical Contractor Association. The MCA of Western Washington works closely with our contractors to ensure the best representation and highest quality of education are provided. They are an integral asset to Local 26’s success.

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Meet our Training Directors

Thompson, Seth

Seth Thompson

Training Coordinator Lacey/ Longview

Seth has been a United Association member since 2007. He began his career as a Plumber Apprentice. He began serving as an instructor and has been Director since 2017.

Santeford, Ryan

Ryan Santeford

Training Coordinator -Northwest Region

Ryan started his apprenticeship in 1999 and completed it in 2004.  He began serving as an instructor in 2007 and has been a Training Director since 2013.

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Dave Whitten

Training Coordinator -HVAC/R

United Association member since 2022. Dave intends to shape and expand the HVAC/R program with his extensive industry experience.

Community Partnership