For over 90 years, the Colorado Sheet Metal Workers have been crafting a float for the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. This tradition began in 1929 and is a year-round effort by apprentices, with each float being built entirely by hand. The apprentices gain valuable skills in craftsmanship, with Luke Cusato, in his final year of apprenticeship, highlighting the hands-on experience he has gained. The students not only learn technical skills but also important soft skills like punctuality and honesty that are in high demand across industries.
The program provides apprentices like Cusato with the opportunity to showcase their skills to their families and the community. The sense of camaraderie among participants is evident, with former apprentices returning to help design the floats and even offer job opportunities to current students. This year, a large crowd gathered downtown to enjoy the parade, which featured traditional Irish music and various festive activities.
The apprenticeship program at Colorado Sheet Metal not only equips students with technical skills but also instills a sense of community and camaraderie. The dedication and hard work of the apprentices are evident in their beautifully crafted floats, which have become a staple of the St. Patrick’s Day parade. The legacy of craftsmanship that began in 1929 continues to thrive, with students like Alex Winters expressing a desire to return and teach others in the future. The annual parade remains a cherished tradition in Colorado Springs, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate the luck of the Irish.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
