Master Apprentice Competition

The Master Apprentice Competition highlights and celebrates our best

For two decades, the Insulation Industry International Apprentice and Training Fund (IIIATF) has proudly hosted the Master Apprentice Competition (MAC). This friendly competition between apprentice Brothers and Sisters showcases the exceptional skills and knowledge of our Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

After winning a similar contest at their home Local and then emerging victorious at the HFIAW Conference Level, the 10 best apprentices gather for a final competition, held in conjunction with the IIIATF’s annual Joint Apprentice Conference (JAC) to determine who is the best apprentice in our union.

The International MAC consists of a written test followed by a challenging insulation project that requires the use of a variety of techniques and materials outlined in spec sheets that competitors receive without the opportunity to review them in advance.

Judges review and grade the insulation mock-up project twice: after the actual insulation is applied, known as the “rough-in,” and at the completion of the competition. The judges’ scores are combined with the written test results to determine the winner.

Celebrating Our Champions

The highlight of the MAC is the crowning of the top-performing apprentice, which includes a cash prize. The winner’s name is then etched on the Thomas A. Haun Cup, a symbol (which looks similar to the NHL Stanley Cup) of their outstanding achievement and dedication to the craft.

Developing Future Leaders

All 10 MAC competitors receive a scholarship to attend the Trainer Enhancement program, five years of advanced training that includes classes on how to be a better leader within the Insulators Union. This advanced training not only enhances their skills, but also inspires many to give back to the union and the industry.

Numerous past MAC Winners and Competitors have gone on to become instructors, training coordinators or union leaders.

MAC Competition News