It doesn’t appear that Ron will be slowing down any time soon. In addition to his regular responsibilities in the Operator’s Union, Ron continues to be “part of the solution” by staying involved in his community as a regular volunteer in Rebuilding Together-Pittsburgh, an annual event during which union builders and contractors donate materials and volunteer their time and talents to assist in the repair of homes for elderly and low income families in the region, humbly noting that it is “just a very heartwarming event to be involved in.” He is also a Deacon for his community church. What’s next for the Verona resident? “Maybe an early retirement to enjoy working on some personal goals and my golf game,” he says smiling. One thing is certain, whatever he chooses to do, Ron will no doubt excel.

Operating Engineers Local Union #66 Vice President Ronald Sapp talks with operator Ray Sprowls at the U.S. Army Corps’ Emsworth Lock and Dam Main Channel Dam Rehabilitation Project.

John Ketter International Union of Painters & Allied Trades District Council 57, Local #2006
		At 6 foot 8 inches tall, John Ketter wasn’t sure what profession would suit him the most. Although he played high school basketball at South Hills Catholic High School in the City of Pittsburgh, his interest in the game

was not enough to take him to the next level.

But height can be an advantage in some professions, particularly those that involve reaching, and no job requires more reaching than being a drywall finisher or another member of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades.

For 20 years, John has been finishing drywall, patching and repairing plaster, and doing various kinds of texturing. For the past 17 years, he has been fortunate to have worked for the same employer-- Zeus Construction.

“I’ve enjoyed the satisfaction of knowing my skill on the job is appreciated by my employer, Zeus Construction, and by the Allegheny Center associates (where he works about six months out of the year) who have received the benefit of my skill,” John says. “Showing up to work every day and working well in my trade has put me at a good spot in my career.”

Reaching that spot has been the result of commitment and dedication to his profession as evidenced by his nearly perfect attendance for 15 years. It also comes from working in a union environment.

“I like the comradery with and the professionalism displayed by my fellow union workers,” John explains. “Being able to perform to others’ satisfaction and having people tell me that they like my work makes my job enjoyable. If you are going to succeed in this business, you must be able to work with others, be cooperative, listen to and follow directions. ”

In addition to working at Allegheny Center on Pittsburgh’s North Side, John has worked on mock-ups for the luxury boxes at PNC Park, at Gateway Towers, at numerous Giant Eagle stores and on various projects at the Duquesne Club. He’s also worked on a Habitat for Humanity house in Uniontown and helped renovate the old rectory at St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Virgin Church in Whitehall.

In addition to his daily work activities, John has served as President of Local 2006 for the past seven years. When considering what advice he would give to anyone wishing to follow in his footsteps, he is quick to point out the importance of having a good work ethic.

“Your employer has to count on you,” he says. “You must be reliable and be willing to work hard. If you want to be the best, you should also keep up with the newest methods, tools and materials, all of which can be learned through the union.” When he’s not working, John likes to fish with his four daughters, Amanda, Robyn, Jamie and Suzie, and work in his garden. He and his wife, Maryann, and their children reside in Baldwin Borough.

Drywall Finisher John Ketter tackles a job inside the Grant Building.