February 2012          

The Pioneer Valley Engineer

What is a POWER ENGINEER?

A Power Engineer is a person proficient in converting energy into power. For over 120 years NAPE has educated its members, in Chapters across the country, in the field of Power Engineering. N.A.P.E. is dedicated to the Education of Power Engineers. Mass Chapter 4 is located in Chicopee Massachusetts, and has over two hundred members that operate and maintain power plants from Worcester to the New York State line. As an active member of Chapter 4 your own professionalism increases each time you exchange ideas with other members at monthly business meetings, seminars, tours or social events. As a member of Chapter 4 we are taught that through association there is success.

President's Message

Let’s start with the good news.  The construction of the Davitt Bridge has been postponed at least until March.  Thankfully you will be able to use it for the upcoming meeting if you .  I hope many of you took a moment to read the great article in last month’s flyer about Brother Dougherty and the recent upgrade to his facility at Smith College.  The mechanical side of the project was very interesting, but what I like about the article was hidden between the lines.

First it was great to see Chuck share this the project with membership, for we can all learn from others.  However the most important part of this article was how Chuck was able to use his trade to benefit the operators and save the facility money.  Returning value to our trade through the use of our knowledge and experiences rationalizes the reason to hire a licensed operator.  Whether you are a 1^st Class Engineer to a 2^nd Fireman, we all possess this ability to improve our trade and show why Massachusetts has the best operator is the country.  The flyer is always looking for great stories like this.  If you or your facility has one to share call the office so they can include it in our flyer.

The National Office staff has gone through some recent changes.  Stephanie Frabrycki is now the office manager.  For those of you who do not know her, Stephanie has NAPE blood in her body, I believe since she has been born.  However, there is going to be some bumps along the way, so bear with the Stephanie and Nicole as they adjust to the changes. 

If you have not yet renew your dues, please do so.  The Chapter grows through your participation and membership.  If you are a vendor who advertises with us, thank you.  Through your support we are able to reach all of our members providing them with important information about their livelihood.  If you have any new products you would like to showcase contact the office and they can make arrangements through the flyer.  Members please consult our advertisers in all your needs, because by supporting them you not only strengthen our Chapter but our community.

Last month we pass our Chapter budget.  Once again a big thank you goes our to Brother Sicard.  He has been the Chapter Treasure since its inception and his behind the scenes effort keeps the wheels spinning.  Thanks George.

Finally plan on attending our February business meeting as we will be honoring our new National Life Time member.  I promise this is a meeting you will not want to miss.

Regards,