PJ Dionne Company, a proud signatory to UA Plumbers Local 12 and the Greater Boston Plumbing Contractors Association, recently organized a field trip for Somerville High School plumbing shop students to help inspire them as the next generation of plumbers.

The students explored the company’s work relocating the Shattuck Hospital. This trip offered them real-world experiences with plumbing and the construction industry, showcasing the challenging and important work involved in large-scale projects.

The Shattuck Hospital relocation has been a huge project involving several state departments, including the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM), the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), the Department of Public Health (DPH), the Department of Mental Health (DMH), and the Department of Corrections (DOC). With the help of PJ Dionne Co, and Gilbane as the general contractor, they are breathing new life into a vacant hospital to better serve the community.

For the Somerville High School students, the visit was more than just a field trip. It was a chance to see what a plumbing professional’s day looks like. They watched Local 12 plumbers install essential plumbing systems for the hospital’s daily operations.

The students saw everything from basic water supply and drainage lines to specialized medical gas systems and waste management solutions. Nick Rio, from PJ Dionne Co, explained how the highest building standards and energy codes are used to ensure the hospital operates efficiently and takes the best care of patients.

The visit also highlighted the importance of precision and planning in plumbing work. The students learned advanced plumbing technologies designed to increase productivity and improve safety. They saw how each component must be carefully installed and tested to make sure it meets the strict standards required in a medical facility.

Beyond the technical aspects, the field trip motivated students by showing them the real-world impact of their future careers. Seeing the direct connection between their classroom lessons and outside application reminded them of the critical role plumbers play in society. They learned that the skills they are developing can lead to a rewarding career that makes a difference in their communities.

The PJ Dionne Company’s efforts with Somerville High School students underscore the importance of hands-on learning experiences. As these aspiring plumbers return to class, they carry with them not just new knowledge, but also renewed inspiration. The field trip showed them that their chosen path is not only viable but essential, and their skills and dedication will lead to impactful careers.