For the SIU’s newest class of recertified stewards, working their way to the top of their department has proven worthwhile in many ways.
The dozen Seafarers in last month’s graduating class briefly shared their respective backgrounds and perspectives with fellow members and unlicensed apprentices at the March membership meeting in Piney Point. While the details varied, the stewards all expressed appreciation for how the union not only helped them find their niche but also enabled them to earn a good living and provide for their families. Many credited the school for helping them advance.
Successfully completing the four-week program—considered the top curriculum for mariners in the steward department—were William Churney, Virgilio Donghit, Alphonse Dixon, Charles Fincher, Abdul Hasan, Erik Ivey, Franco Pizzuto, Joseph Jones, Michael Watts, Pedro Ramos-Mena, Dennis Skretta and Fausto Aranda.
The recertification course, like most other classes at the Paul Hall Center, blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. It also includes meetings with representatives from the various departments within the union and the Seafarers Plans, along with a trip to AFL-CIO headquarters (including the offices of the Maritime Trades Department).
Detailed refreshers in safety training (including fire fighting, first aid and CPR) and sanitary conditions are emphasized. Computer training also is a key part of the course. Other important topics include study skills, communication and nutrition.
In every instance, the curriculum is designed to help stewards do an even better job when they go to their next ships.
Following are some of the comments shared by the stewards last month, including remarks directed to the unlicensed apprentices at the meeting. They are presented in the same order in which the Seafarers addressed their fellow members.
Joseph Jones
“I’ve sailed all over the world. The SIU has helped me in a positive way, helped me better my life and my family…. To the apprentices, study hard, ask questions, listen to your supervisors and work together as a team.”
Abdul Hasan
“I learned a lot during the course and improved my job skills. I like my job and being part of the SIU. I can be a good provider and still spend time with my family. God bless the SIU!”
Virgilio Donghit
“I was a career Navy man, a steward and cook for 26 years, and when I first retired I didn’t have much luck. Then I realized I still belonged at sea. I joined the SIU in Jacksonville as a messman, starting over. I was advised to upgrade and upgrade, and that’s what I did to once again reach my ambition.
“Apprentices, do your best and think of safety first—yours and that of your brethren. Encourage your friends to join this outfit. That’s my message.”
Michael Watts
“I thank the SIU for opening a lot of doors for me, and I commend my classmates. To the apprentices, there is money to be made, but learn how to manage it. Don’t waste it.”
Franco Pizzuto
“In the 1980s I was on vacation in Hawaii when I heard about American Hawaii Cruises. I got a job with them, and after 19 years I’m still an SIU member. That says something good about this union.
“I’ve upgraded many times, and each time I return to the school I see improvement. The instructors and staff are really dedicated. I hope you apprentices will take advantage of the school, because it’s all here for you.”
Charles Fincher
“This (course) has been highly educational. The Camp Springs (SIU headquarters) staff is doing a wonderful job…. I’ve been doing this for 40 years and I’d say they have some of the best instructors in the world right here at Piney Point.
“Apprentices, we look forward to you being out there with us because you’ll have the right training and skills.”
Erik Ivey
“I thank the staff here at the school. I also want people to understand that without the union we wouldn’t have any medical benefits for our loved ones. We can never forget our union leaders who go out and fight on our behalf.”
Fausto Aranda
“The SIU has helped me take care of my kids, and this is a great school for those who want to get ahead in life. I learned a lot during the course and look forward to sharing the knowledge with members on ships.
“God bless our apprentices. It’s a great career and a huge opportunity to be part of a great American tradition. Take pride in your learning and you’re going to see the difference the SIU makes.”
Dennis Skretta
“I have come to this school six times so far. The level of education here has always been of the highest caliber. I have learned many things here that have helped me in my chosen career. I also learned from the cook/bakers, chief cooks, stewards and other crew members I worked with on the ships.
“To the ladies and gentlemen who will be joining this union, I want to say there is a lot of knowledge at this facility and out on the ships at sea. I implore you to take advantage of it all.”
Pedro Ramos-Mena
“The SIU has been good to my family and me. Almost everything I have is because of the SIU. Our union is like a guide to a better future.
“I have learned a lot here at the school, and everything I’ve learned is going to help me guide others…. Apprentices, learn about and support SPAD. Work hard together as a team.”
Alphonse Dixon
“I’ve sailed with the Navy, MSC and the SIU—all over the world, in all positions. I give personal thanks to the school staff and instructors.
“To the apprentices, do you have dreams? The opportunity is right here for you. Don’t blow it. You’ve got the best team of officials right here to help you.”
William Churney
“I’ve learned quite a bit here and really enjoyed the training. We have great instructors, and there is so much to learn. Everyone should upgrade.”
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