When Mellissa Brotherson, a highly accomplished Journeyman Plumber with UA Local Union 1, began her education, she was surprised by how prevalent water is in the built environment, but also how little people seem to notice it.

Beginning her career in construction as a non-union member, Brotherson decided to enter the plumbing industry through UA Local Union 1 because of the challenging work involved. She explored welding and became the fastest Local 1 apprentice on record to attain a UA welding qualification. Brotherson’s talent was obvious; she was chosen as the first Local 1 welder to be sent to the UA Apprentice Competition, and became an instructor prior to graduation.