In this special crossover episode, host Ryan Kleber sits down with Mike Masterson, the Business Agent for UA Local 669 Sprinkler Fitters – District 12, which spans the entire state of Kentucky. With over 28 years of experience, Mike opens up about the unique structure of his national local, the extreme demands of fire protection, and the life of constant travel required to cover every corner of Kentucky’s 120 counties.
You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how fire codes are evolving in the age of electric vehicles and battery plants—and why the work of sprinkler fitters is more critical than ever before.
🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The national reach of Local 669, covering 48 states with agents assigned massive territories
✅ The key differences between sprinkler fitters and pipefitters—and why code compliance is non-negotiable
✅ The growing threat of EV battery fires (“hotter than the surface of the sun”)
✅ How Local 669 keeps an 85–90% market share through member-driven organizing
✅ The many hats of a Business Agent: counselor, negotiator, advocate, and 24/7 problem-solver
✅ The value of the Kentucky Pipe Trades Association and why cross-local collaboration matters
✅ Life on the road, and the vital role family support plays for union leaders like Mike
About the Guest: Mike Masterson
Mike Masterson serves as the District 12 Business Agent for Sprinkler Fitters Local 669, covering all 120 counties in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With nearly three decades of field experience, Mike brings deep insight into both the technical and regulatory aspects of the fire protection industry. He began his career in the trade as an apprentice and rose through the ranks, gaining firsthand knowledge of the evolving safety codes, compliance pressures, and jobsite realities that sprinkler fitters face daily. Now, as a key leader in one of the largest national union locals in the country, Mike advocates for workers’ rights, enforces fire protection standards, negotiates on behalf of members, and mentors the next generation of sprinkler fitters.
Known for his boots-on-the-ground leadership and nonstop travel, Mike’s district responsibilities include representing UA Local 669 in statewide labor discussions, helping coordinate with other trades through the Kentucky Pipe Trades Association, and ensuring that all jobs—no matter how remote—are protected by properly trained and certified union members. His passion for the trade, commitment to safety, and ability to explain complex industry shifts (like those caused by EV battery plants) make him an invaluable voice on this week’s episode.
🔥 Why This Episode Matters:
This episode isn’t just about fire protection—it’s about dedication, structure, and brotherhood in the trades. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of how different locals operate, how codes are enforced, and how vital unity is when covering vast ground.
📬 Got a Question for Mike or Ryan?
Let us know what topics you want covered in future episodes. Email us or leave a comment—your input drives the show.