Pawtucket-based firm invests in youth, trades, and the future of the construction industry.
Pawtucket, Rhode Island—Unique Metal Works (UMW) of Pawtucket, RI recently concluded its second annual Heavy Metal Summer Experience (HMSE), a three-week immersive program designed to introduce high school students to careers in the skilled trades through hands-on training and mentorship. The program culminated in a celebratory graduation ceremony on July 24, 2025, where students were joined by family, friends, mentors, elected officials, and company leadership to honor their achievements.
Hands-On Learning Meets Real-World Experience
Throughout the program, eight campers completed over 24 hours of hands-on instruction in sheet metal, plumbing, pipefitting, and welding. Under the guidance of UMW’s union tradespeople—who generously volunteered their time—students built a range of projects including a soldered “Pipe Man” sculpture, a welded metal star, and a custom-fabricated toolbox. A collaborative ductwork assembly offered a practical glimpse into how components come together on a jobsite.
Classroom-style sessions complemented the hands-on work, covering topics such as union membership pathways, jobsite safety, and the transition from digital blueprints to physical builds. These lessons helped bridge technical skills with career planning, giving students a clear view of opportunities in the trades.
This impactful experience was made possible through the pivotal leadership of Norman Brothers, President of Unique Metal Works, and Susan Avakyan, Company Controller, whose commitment to youth development and skilled trades education brought the camp to life.
Celebrating Achievement and Potential
The graduation ceremony featured remarks from Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien, who congratulated the students and emphasized the importance of exploring careers in the trades to ensure the future strength of the industry. He also thanked the students’ families and UMW leadership for their support and vision.
UMW President Norman Brothers expressed pride in the campers’ growth and dedication, stating:
“When you learn a trade—a skill—nobody can ever take that away from you. No matter where you are—Rhode Island, Maine, Florida—that trade stays with you. They say AI is coming for everybody, but AI is not coming for the sheet metal workers, the plumbers, the pipefitters, or the electricians. It might make our jobs easier, but you still need the hands and the skills.”
The ceremony served as both a celebration of student achievement and a powerful reminder of the enduring value of skilled trades in a rapidly evolving workforce.
A Pathway to Career Success
The impact of HMSE is already evident. Olive Chouinard, a graduate of last year’s camp, is now a full-time member of Sheet Metal Workers Local 17 and works with Unique Metal Works. “I used to know nothing about sheet metal work, but I knew I wanted to work in the trades,” she shared. “Without this camp, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”
Several students from this year’s program have expressed interest in staying connected with UMW to explore future job openings, internships, and apprenticeship opportunities.
Meeting the Workforce Challenge
With the construction industry facing a nationwide shortage of over 500,000 skilled workers, programs like HMSE are more vital than ever. They offer students hands-on experience, industry insight, and direct connections to employers—helping bridge the gap between education and employment.
To learn more about the Heavy Metal Summer Experience, visit www.hmse.org.
About Unique Metal Works
Unique Metal Works is a leading provider of high-quality sheet metal design, fabrication, and installation for commercial, industrial, and institutional clients across the region. Leveraging advanced fabrication technologies, CAD/BIM integration, and union-certified craftsmanship to deliver scalable, code-compliant solutions tailored to client specifications, Unique Metal Works is committed to quality, safety, and innovation, serving as a trusted partner to contractors, engineers, and facility managers throughout the Northeast. To learn more, visit www.uniquemtl.com.
