Fitter Talk

Curtis Ohlde
  • 5.0 (7)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A podcast for Pipefitters L.U. 533, United Association Members and their customers to learn more about Pipefitters Local 533 of Kansas and the Mechanical Piping and HVAC Service Industry in both Kansas City and from across the country.  Hosted by Curtis Ohlde of L.U. 533, listen in as new episodes will drop every other week with Bonus Episodes in between scheduled weeks.

  1. 09/20/2025

    Episode 27 Suicide Awareness Month with Joe & Omar

    In this Suicide Awareness Month episode, Fitter Talk host Curtis Ohlde is joined by Joe Hawk (UA Local 100, Dallas) and Omar Galindo (UA Local 78, Los Angeles) for a powerful conversation about mental health, peer support, and suicide prevention in the trades. The group reflects on their teaching experiences at ITP, noting how the new classroom facilities and auditorium provided a much better learning environment. They also highlight the importance of tailoring mental health toolbox talks to the realities of the trade, ensuring that messages are relatable and impactful. Both Joe and Omar share deeply personal stories—Joe about his struggles with substance abuse, and Omar about living with PTSD and overcoming suicide attempts. Their openness underscores the importance of breaking stigma and creating safe spaces for conversation. The discussion dives into Pipe Pals, a peer-led suicide prevention network, and the UA’s mental health training programs (2171 & 2172), which equip members with practical peer support skills. They also discuss strategies for expanding Vital Cog training, integrating it into OSHA classes, and reaching apprentices, journeymen, and foremen across the country. Throughout the conversation, Curtis, Joe, and Omar emphasize the power of peer support, self-care, and asking for help—reminding listeners that seeking support is a sign of strength. They also touch on new benefit programs and upcoming training sessions aimed at supporting members’ overall well-being. Resources 988 - 988lifeline.orgUA Pipe Pals - ua.org/pipe-palsUA Local 533 - www.local533.com/?zone=/unionactive/view_page.cfm&page=53320Peer20SupportFitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C., and may be reached at CowTownProductionsKC@outlook.com.

    1h 11m

  2. 08/30/2025

    New Season Episode 26 and Have a Safe Labor Day Weekend

    In this week’s episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Pete and Craig to share exciting updates from the Training Center—including the launch of new classes and the addition of the South Block rental building to support the growth of apprenticeship programs. They also wrap up a busy week in Ann Arbor at the UA Instructor Training Program. The conversation then shifts to recent travels: Craig’s trip to Germany, Pete’s getaway to Aruba, and Curtis’s journey to Alaska, where he connected with UA Local members in Anchorage, explored Denali, and experienced an Alaskan cruise. These opportunities highlight the value and reach of organized labor, especially as we head into Labor Day weekend—a reminder of the hard-fought gains from the 8-hour workday to the benefits unions provide today. Looking ahead to September, the group discusses the importance of suicide prevention and mental health awareness—not just this month, but every day. Craig emphasizes the power of checking in on one another, while Curtis challenges listeners to include suicide prevention messages in upcoming toolbox talks. Remember: resources are available, and dialing 988 can connect you with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Fitter Talk is a production of Cowtown Productions L.L.C. and may be reached via email CowTownProductionsKC@gmail.com

    46 min

  3. 07/18/2025

    Episode 25 – Summer Updates, Instructor Training Prep, and Orbital Welding with Jacob Morgan

    Episode 25 – Summer Updates, Instructor Training Prep, and Orbital Welding with Jacob Morgan In this milestone 25th episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde is joined by Pete for a mid-summer check-in. With Summer Break already more than halfway through, the two dive into current events and preparations underway at the training center as they gear up for the United Association's Instructor Training Program (ITP) and the return of classes. The conversation then shifts to Pete’s first experience with Morgan Industrial Technology (MIT), setting the stage for this episode’s guest: Jacob Morgan. Jacob shares the origins of MIT, its relationship with Arc Machines Inc. (AMI), and their cutting-edge equipment line. The discussion takes a deeper dive into the world of Orbital Welding—Jacob breaks down the process, technology, and the growing demand across the industry. If you’re into welding tech, training insights, and where the industry is headed, you won’t want to miss this one. Enjoy Episode 25 of Fitter Talk! Morgan Industrial Technology-www.morganitech.com Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at CowTownProductionsKC@outlook.com.

    42 min

  4. 07/04/2025

    Episode 24 – Safety First: Fireworks, Boating & United Association with Rita Neiderheiser

    We're back! After a bit of a break, what better way to kick off a holiday weekend filled with fireworks than by talking safety? 🎆 In this episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde is joined by Pete Smith during breaktime to chat about current events, fireworks safety, and tips for staying safe on the water this summer. Then, Curtis sits down with Rita Neiderheiser from Sprinkler Fitters Local 669 to discuss life in the trade, her journey through the ranks, and her role as a safety instructor for the UA—teaching courses like the OSHA-502 refresher. Packed with insight, stories, and reminders to keep safety top of mind, this episode is the perfect way to ease into your holiday weekend. Enjoy Episode 24 of Fitter Talk! Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C., and may be contacted via email CowTownProductionsKC@outlook.com.

    50 min

  5. 09/20/2024

    Henderson Engineers with Jason Cornett and CO2 Refrigeration

    Welcome back to Fitter Talk! Your host, Curtis Ohlde, returns from a short sabbatical as he embarks on his new role as the HVAC Training Coordinator for Pipefitters Local 533 Training Center. In today’s episode, Curtis is joined by Craig for a special Breaktime news segment where they catch up on summer highlights, the start of the school year, and the important topic of Suicide Awareness. This week’s guest is Jason Cornett, Refrigeration Technical Manager at Henderson Engineers Inc. in Lenexa, Kansas. Jason dives into his background and offers insights into Henderson Engineers before exploring the growing trend of CO2 in commercial refrigeration, including installation practices and material considerations. He also discusses the use of propane in commercial refrigeration systems. This episode is packed with technical information that we hope you find enlightening! To wrap things up, Jason shares details about an upcoming disc golf tournament hosted by Henderson. Interested participants can reach out to him via email at jason.cornett@hendersonengineers.com. Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions, L.L.C. For inquiries, contact us at CowTownProductionsKC@outlook.com. Enjoy the show!

    1h 17m

  6. 06/14/2024

    Celebrating 75 Years: A Journey with Holmberg Mechanical

    Join host Curtis Ohlde in this episode of Fitter Talk as he sits down with Angela White, a key figure at Holmberg Mechanical based in the Seattle, Washington Area. As a signatory contractor with UA Local 32, Holmberg Mechanical boasts a rich history in the mechanical industry. Angela shares her personal journey within the company, highlighting her various roles and experiences before and during her tenure. She also sheds light on her husband Jeff's remarkable progression from plumbing apprentice with Local 32 to becoming the owner and CEO of Holmberg Mechanical. As September approaches, Holmberg Mechanical gears up to celebrate an impressive milestone - 75 years in the mechanical industry. Angela delves into the company's achievements, including notable awards, and offers insights into the diverse industries Holmberg serves. Moreover, Angela discusses her recent completion of the UA2172 Advanced Peer Support and Suicide Awareness Program, making Holmberg the first contractor to undertake the initiative with UA. She shares why the company deemed it essential to undergo such training and how they are implementing the VitalCog program to benefit Holmberg employees. Tune in for a fascinating conversation that encapsulates the legacy, values, and forward-thinking approach of Holmberg Mechanical. For more information about Holmberg Mechanical, https://holmbergco.com/. Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions and may be reached at CowTownProductionsKC@outlook.com.

    48 min

  7. 05/31/2024

    Victaulic with Nathan Noland

    In this episode of Fitter Talk we go back to "Tech Talk" as host Curtis Ohlde sits down with Victaulic Rep, Nathan Noland.  Nathan share a little about his background before coming to his current role with Victaulic.  Victalulic was first started in London in 1919 as Victory Pipe Joint Company as part of the war effort.  Then in 1924 came to North America.  Nathan shares the various industries as well as materials that Victaulic is involved in.  Nathan also shares that there is a different between manufactures of groove piping as well as with the couplings and gaskets used.  Then goes over some of the newer products and updates to the product line then finishes with the importance of proper training. Nathan shares his contact information mobile- 816.520.7742 or nathan.noland@victaulic.com.  You may also find out more about Victaulic at https://www.victaulic.com. Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions L.L.C. and may be reached at CowTownProductionsKC@outlook.com.

    42 min

  8. 04/27/2024

    Breaktime with Craig Hickson

    For this Episode of Fitter Talk, host Curtis Ohlde sits down with co-instructor Craig Hickson to go over current events.  A regular interview will not be part of this episode due to some scheduling conflicts but be sure to look for those as they will likely drop weekly until caught back up on regular schedule.  Noted in Breaktime from episode 1, Jack Hicklin was in the hospital but in the intro, announced that he passed on Friday April 26th. Curtis also shared in breaktime that the Strong Hands to Stronger Minds Foundation website should be getting launched anytime.  Be on the look out for it, for resources and awareness. Fitter Talk is a production of Cow Town Productions, L.L.C. and may be reached at CowTownProductions@outlook.com

    15 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

A podcast for Pipefitters L.U. 533, United Association Members and their customers to learn more about Pipefitters Local 533 of Kansas and the Mechanical Piping and HVAC Service Industry in both Kansas City and from across the country.  Hosted by Curtis Ohlde of L.U. 533, listen in as new episodes will drop every other week with Bonus Episodes in between scheduled weeks.

Information

  • Creator
    Curtis Ohlde
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Fitter Talk
  • Show Website
    Fitter Talk