Lee Aurand-Hosey

Lee Aurand-Hosey is a dedicated Boilermaker and experienced instructor committed to recruiting and training the next generation of skilled tradespeople. As the Southeastern Area Recruiter and Instructor for SAJAC, he actively builds relationships with vocational schools, technical colleges, high schools, and workforce development programs to introduce students to Boilermaking as a career path.

Aurand-Hosey began his career as a Boilermaker in 2002, joining Alstom’s first apprenticeship program in Chattanooga, Tennessee, designed to train diverse workers in all aspects of plant operations. He became a member of Local 656 before transferring to Local 454, where he has held leadership roles, including chairman of the executive board and his current position as president of Local 454. With extensive experience as a journeyman welder, he has worked throughout the east and Midwest and participated in the Paul Wedge Competition in 2005.

As an instructor since 2015, Aurand-Hosey has trained apprentices at Local 454 and Local 455. He helped to launch the NTD’s first-year apprentice class in Hartsville, Tennessee, in 2023. His credentials include serving as an OSHA 30 instructor, MOST rigging qualified instructor and TVA rigging instructor. His passion for workforce development extends beyond the classroom. He has actively participated in Skills USA Competitions, the National FFA conference and numerous high school welding competitions. He also collaborates with Chambers of Commerce, Helmets to Hardhats, and second-chance programs like Goodwill Career Services to create opportunities for those seeking a career in the trades.

Aurand-Hosey’s primary objective as a recruiter is to establish a strong pipeline of future Boilermakers by partnering with feeder schools and making career information widely accessible. He believes in promoting the value of blue-collar success and has visited over 100 schools, recognizing that this is only the beginning of a much larger effort. His dedication to the trade is evident in his commitment to mentorship, with journeymen now reaching out to join him in speaking to students and welding communities. Aurand-Hosey remains focused on strengthening the Boilermaker brotherhood and sisterhood, ensuring the next generation is prepared to carry the trade forward.